Autism Acceptance Month 2025: Acceptance Is an Action
April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to move beyond awareness and take meaningful action toward inclusion and support for autistic individuals.
From Awareness to Acceptance
In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly established April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, which was initially focused on finding a cure. That first Autism Awareness Day then morphed into a full month, with community members spending April focused on awareness. Over the years, many autistic advocates called on the community to go a step further and move from awareness to acceptance. As Governor Tim Walz stated in a previous Autism Acceptance Month proclamation, “Because disability rights are human rights that should always move forward, autism awareness was a step toward autism acceptance that can grow further into autism appreciation.” This April, the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is taking it a step further. We’re moving from acceptance to action.
For too long, autism conversations have been led by those outside the autistic community. But autistic individuals are the true experts on autism, and their voices must lead discussions and decisions that impact their lives. What AuSM hears from the autism community over and over is that they need communities which accept and support them through meaningful actions, not just words.
Autism acceptance isn’t just an idea—it’s a choice to act. With one in 34 Minnesotans being autistic, acceptance means ensuring that workplaces, schools, and public spaces are truly inclusive. It means advocating for policies that provide equitable access to services and support. It means amplifying autistic voices and experiences. This April, AuSM invites everyone to turn intention into action.
How Can You Take Action?
AuSM invites the community to take part in Autism Acceptance Month through tangible actions that promote inclusion and support. Here are a few ways to participate:
✅ Listen to and amplify autistic voices – Read and share books, articles, and media created by autistic individuals.
✅ Create inclusive spaces – Implement sensory-friendly accommodations in workplaces, schools, and public spaces.
✅ Advocate for policy change – Contact legislators to support disability rights and autism services.
✅ Educate yourself and others – Attend an AuSM training, host a discussion, or follow neurodiversity advocates.
✅ Support the autism community – Donate, fundraise, or partner with AuSM to expand essential resources.
Become an Autism Acceptance Month Partner
Organizations looking to make a difference can sign up to become official Autism Acceptance Month partners. Participation is simple—any level of involvement counts. Here are some ways to contribute:
- Share an AuSM Autism Acceptance Graphic – Display it on social media, your website, or in email signatures.
- Fundraise for AuSM – Host a special event or encourage donations to support Minnesota’s autism community.
- Offer a Special Product or Service – Dedicate proceeds from a giveaway, menu item, or sale event to AuSM.
- Round Up for Autism – Allow customers to round up purchases to support autism initiatives.
- Commit to Accessibility – Implement inclusive hiring practices and workplace accommodations.
- Host an Educational Event – Invite autistic speakers, hold discussions, or launch an awareness campaign.
Find more ideas and resources in AuSM’s partner toolkit, available on the AuSM website.
From Commitment to Change
Autism acceptance is only the beginning—real progress happens when acceptance turns into action. Autistic individuals deserve more than passive support; they deserve policies, workplaces, schools, and communities that actively uplift and include them.
“The time for awareness has passed, and even acceptance alone is not enough,” said AuSM’s Executive Director, Ellie Wilson. “Real change happens when we commit to action—by amplifying autistic voices, advocating for systemic change, and ensuring accessibility in every space.”
Autism Acceptance Month is not just about recognizing autism—it’s about creating a society that actively supports and includes autistic individuals. This April, let’s move beyond words and take action together. Join AuSM in making acceptance a reality—through action.