City of SantaClara
WHEREAS, in the United States, more than 5.4 million adults are autistic and 1 in every 44 children have been diagnosed with autism and are often misunderstood. Autistic people face obstacles when seeking employment , health care, education, and housing; the immense contributions of people with autism are often overlooked; and WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month is a time to celebrate the differences of neurodiverse people everywhere and champion the equal rights and dignity of those on the autism spectrum; and
WHEREAS, the 2026 Autism Awareness Month theme is "Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value," according to the United Nations. This theme emphasizes affirming the dignity, rights, and potential of all autistic individuals while fostering inclusive environments, focusing on the belief that embracing neurodiversity is essential for a sustainable and equitable future. and WHEREAS, the San Andreas Regional Center (SARC) is a community-based, private nonprofit corporation that serves people with developmental disabilities. SARC provides case management and community services for residents of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey counties whose intellectual or developmental disabilities cause severe impairments in their daily lives.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, LISA M. GILLMOR, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor, and on behalf of the City of Santa Clara, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2026, as
AUTISM AWARENESS 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 7th day of April 2026.
LISA M. GILLMOR
MAYOR, CITY OF SANTA CLARA
ALBERT GONZALEZ
VICE MAYOR, DISTRICT 1
RAJ CHAHAL
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 2
KAREN HARDY
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 3
KEVIN PARK
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 4
SUDS JAIN
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 5
KELLY G. COX
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 6
Proclamation