National Autism Awareness Month

Floor Speech

Mr. YODER. Mr. Speaker, not only is April National Autism Awareness Month, but more specifically, today, April 2, is World Autism Awareness Day. Today, we join with families all across the world in a sign of support, unity, and encouragement.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, nearly one in 68 babies born will be diagnosed with some degree of autism. Families dealing with autism are in all of our districts, and they are in our communities. They are our neighbors, and they are our families and friends. Yet far too little awareness and support occurs for these families that are raising an autistic child.

April is one more opportunity to spread the word and remind others about autism, and to raise awareness about the importance of research and advocacy for Americans who are living with developmental disabilities. Families dealing with autism bear their challenges admirably and lovingly, raising children into adults who contribute to our country in so many ways. Today, we celebrate those families and their many accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize April as National Autism Awareness Month.

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