The President released a message on Apr. 2 to mark Autism Awareness Day, affirming the administration’s commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families. The statement emphasized the importance of providing resources and advancing research to help those living with autism reach their full potential.
The message said that every child has inherent dignity, purpose, and worth, and highlighted the contributions of people with autism to families, communities, and the nation. The President said his administration is focused on improving lives by expanding resources, promoting early screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and working closely with communities to better understand needs.
Efforts include raising awareness about early signs of autism so children can receive timely support. The President also noted an increase in the rate of children identified as being on the spectrum in recent decades. According to the statement, one in 32 children is now identified as having ASD.
The President referenced last year’s creation of the Make America Healthy Again Commission and collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services as part of a broader initiative to invest in major research efforts related to autism. These initiatives aim not only at increasing treatment options but also at researching possible causes and risk factors associated with ASD.
In closing his remarks for Autism Awareness Day, the President reaffirmed a commitment “to expanding understanding, supporting families, and ensuring that children with autism receive the care they need.” He added that efforts will continue toward building “a future where every person is valued and given the opportunity to achieve their own American Dream.”
