Title
Proclamation Declaring April 2018 as National Autism Awareness Month. (City Manager 2110)
Body
Proclamation
Whereas, the month of April has been designated National Autism Awareness Month which recognizes those that live on the autism spectrum, celebrates their contribution to our community, and reaffirms their rights to participate fully in society; and
Whereas, autism spectrum disorder and autism are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors, and some persons on the autism spectrum excel in visual skills, music, math and art; and
Whereas, in the United States, millions of people of all ages live on the autism spectrum, including one out of every 68 children; and they are our colleagues, classmates, friends, and loved ones; and
Whereas, it is well-documented that when individuals on the autism spectrum receive early and intensive support and appropriate education throughout their lives, their growth, development, and lives can be significantly improved; and
Whereas, autism requires increased investment, including in research, so that one day everyone on the spectrum can receive appropriate care and services throughout their lives; and we can better understand conditions like autism and improve the lives of all who live with it; and
Whereas, the City of Alameda’s Commission on Disability, which started as a Mayor’s Committee in 1975 by former Mayor Chuck Corica, was established to provide information and make recommendations to the City Council regarding disability issues and serve as a liaison between the City Council and Alameda’s disabled community.
Now, therefore be it resolved, that I, Trish Herrera Spencer, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2018 as
Autism Awareness Month
in the City of Alameda and encourage all residents, businesses, civic groups, government agencies, and other organizations to learn more about autism and what they can do to support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Trish Herrera Spencer
Mayor