Autistic Pride Day is an annual celebration that takes place on June 18th. It’s a day where we get to show off our unique Autistic identity. We also celebrate the amazing things we bring to the world.

This year I and many others are going to show their autistic pride like no other. Autism Awareness / Acceptance month has been unique. The US Secretary of Health and Human Services made disparaging comments that generalized what autistic people will never do. This sparked quite an outrage among the autistic community. We live in an ever-changing world. There is a significant need for us, as autistic folks, to have what we need to thrive. It is equally important for us to survive in the outside world. This is contrary to reversing what we have been fighting for most of my living years.

I am autistic and I break stereotypes and barriers. I have shattered many of the statements that were made back in April. Yes, being autistic is challenging sometimes, but there are also some joys of bestowing the diagnosis too. No two autistic individuals are alike in any way. But, I came from an era where finding what I need to thrive was not available. It was not even there. Many advancements have occurred in the therapy world. These advancements have provided a better quality of life for many autistic individuals.

While at time being autistic can have its painful moments, there are also moments that make us stand out. These moments bring the things that make us who we are. It oftentimes allows us to see things in a different light bringing more insight than that of a neurotypical person. Each situation in an autistic person varies. The need for their care, supports, or accommodations will also vary. One thing we must do is wear it with a badge of honor. It makes us who we are. It helps us make sense of why we are who we are.

I am proud of being an autistic person. I take pride in my accomplishments. I share my story with the world. It has been around five years that I have been doing it in the way that I have done it. I have been through so much in those five years, let alone the past four decades of living. It can seem challenging and hopeless at times. The reality is we must not allow autism to get in the way of our daily lives. Instead, we should embrace it. Let it become a part of our lives that we welcome with open arms.