Today, 2nd April 2013, we celebrate the 6th annual World Autism Awareness Day. US President Barack Obama had some special announcements for those who have been diagnosed with Autism. He congratulated the parents, siblings and teachers for showering love and support to those who suffer from Autism Spectrum Disorder.
However, President Obama was saddened with reports from public health officials which suggested that 1 out of 88 children in the United States suffer from ASD. Moreover, cases of autistic people being discriminated against in getting access to education and employment are also increasing in number. Therefore, President’s administration assured today to recommit themselves in helping autistic individuals reach their full potential.
President Obama has decided to dedicate funds in making further researches and investigations in mapping the brain to better understand the causes and treatments for autism. In 2014, President Obama has promised to launch a health care system known as the Affordable Care Act to look after adults and children suffering from ASD. This Act will prevent insurance companies from denying coverage to people suffering from ASD, and bring forward new health plans to conduct autism screenings without any cost.
Autistic students are the ones to be given utmost importance. Initiatives are being launched to help these students get good education without discrimination or excessive hardship. By opening higher education and supporting vocational rehabilitation programs, it is also going to be made sure that this education can lead to meaningful employment opportunities in future.
Above all, the President urges all Americans to gather more information on Autism Spectrum Disorder, and understand what role they can play in order to support an autistic child and their families. Increase in awareness is the one thing which can make sure that people suffering from ASD can meet with wider opportunities in the years ahead.
