Photo: CARE/David Rochkind, Design: Kim Conger

Today, April 2nd, marks the fifth anniverary of the date declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations.  The Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s message for 2012 can be read here.

The day recognizes those on the spectrum, and is a time for us all to help spread awareness, especially in those situations that have led to discrimination.  The same year as the first World Autism Awareness Day, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force, which affirms the need for universal human rights for all.

Below I’ve included a couple links to other articles about World Autism Day and autism in general:

5 Things: World Autism Day – Global Edmonton

Autism can be an ‘advantage,’ says researcher – msnbc

Autism More Common in Tech-Heavy Centers – MyHealthNewsDaily