Who We Are
Autistic Pride Day is an Autistic-led, community-rooted celebration of neurodivergent identity, joy, and resilience. It's more than a day—it’s a movement toward visibility, dignity, and collective liberation for Autistic people. Autistic pride day recognizes and validates the dynamic, heterogeneous and multifaceted ways Autism shows up for different people at different times in their lives. This embracing of diversity within the Autistic community happens through an intentional commitment to understanding how Autism intersects with other identity categories (such as race, class, gender, sexuality, age, co-occuring disabilities, and more) and impacts the supports, stereotypes, oppressions and life experiences of Autistic people. We hope to have Autistic Pride Day formally recognized by local schools, the city and the state.
We envision a world where Autistic people of all ages and identities are free to be their authentic selves without shame, pressure to mask, or marginalization. A world where schools, cities, and communities honor the spectrum of neurodivergent experiences—not with pity or tokenism, but with validation, adequate support, and joy.
JOYFUL. UNAPOLOGETIC. PROUD.
Newton, Massachusetts resolution
A Resolution Declaring June 18 as Autistic Pride Day in the City of Newton
WHEREAS, Autistic people are a valued and diverse part of our community, whose lives, contributions, and identities have historically been misunderstood, marginalized, or erased; and
WHEREAS, Autistic Pride Day, first celebrated in 2005 by Autistic-led organizations, is an annual celebration by and for Autistic individuals, rooted in the principles of self-determination, neurodiversity, and dignity; and
WHEREAS, Autistic people have the right to be recognized and celebrated not for how well they conform to social norms, but for who they are—whether speaking or non-speaking, masked or unmasked, young or old, “proudly Autistic” or still exploring what pride means to them; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Autistic Pride Day includes sensory-friendly environments, neurodiversity-affirming community activities, visibility for Autistic art and voices, and tools for inclusive interaction, such as fidget toys, color-coded interaction badges, AAC (Alternative / Augmentative Communication) supports; and
WHEREAS, local schools and community organizations play a vital role in validating and uplifting neurodivergent students through inclusive curricula, public recognition, and culturally responsive learning environments; and
WHEREAS, the City of Newton affirms the rights of Autistic individuals to be fully visible, included, and supported in all areas of life, including education, employment, health care, and public life; and
WHEREAS, Autistic Pride Day provides an opportunity for community members to learn, reflect, celebrate, and stand in solidarity with the Autistic community, recognizing it’s diversity and the ways intersectional identities impact Autistic people, and promoting belonging, mental wellness, and human rights for all;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of Newton hereby declares June 18 as Autistic Pride Day and encourages residents, schools, businesses, and community organizations to join in recognizing, affirming, and celebrating the richness and diversity of Autistic lives.
