Draft Proclamation
City of SantaClara
WHEREAS, there is no one way to be autistic, but together autistic people make our communities stronger; and
WHEREAS, in the United States, more than 5.4 million adults are autistic, and 1 in every 44 children had been diagnosed with autism; and
WHEREAS, autism is often misunderstood, and autistic people face obstacles when seeking employment, health care, education, and housing; the immense contributions of people with autism are often overlooked; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, Autism Awareness Month was renamed Autism Acceptance Month to foster acceptance and ignite changes; and
WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month is a time to celebr ate the differences of n eurodiverse people everywhere and champion the equal rights and dignity of those on the autism spectrum; and
WHEREAS, the 2024 theme of Autism Acceptance M onth, “Celebrate Differences” serves as a reminder to foster inclusivity and connec tedness and to renew the commitment to honoring the unique perspectives of autistic people and supporting children with autism and their families so they can reach their full potential.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, LISA M. GILLMOR, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor, and on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby proclaim April 2024 as Autism Acceptance Month
in the City of Santa Clara, and recognize the significant contributions of autistic individuals within this community.
Given under my hand and the Seal of the City of Santa Clara, California, this 23rd day of April 2024.
LISA M. GILLMOR
MAYOR
City of Santa Clara
Proclamation