Padmavati Prabhu
Panaji
Celebrated every year on June 18, Autistic Pride Day is a day to celebrate autistic people, their strengths, and the way they see the world.
“It’s not just about creating awareness about autism, but about accepting and respecting autistic individuals for who they are. Autistic pride is led by autistic people themselves, and it reminds us that autism is not a problem to be fixed, but a different way of being,” says Andre Velho, Senior Autism Interventionist at Sethu Centre for Child Development and Family Guidance.
The best way any common person can connect with autistic individuals is to be kind, patient and open-minded, says Velho pointing out that every autistic person is different.
“Some may communicate differently; some may not like loud sounds or crowds. It helps to listen carefully, give space, and not force someone to behave in a certain way. A simple question like – How can I help? – can mean a lot,” he says.
The theme for the Autistic Pride Day this year is ‘unapologetically autistic’ which is about accepting and being proud of being autistic.
“The theme mainly means autistic people don’t need to hide who they are or try to act like everyone else to fit in. It tells the world – I am autistic and I’m not ashamed. It also reminds others to support and respect autistic people without trying to change them,” he says.
Similarly, caregivers too, including parents and family members have a very important role to play in supporting autistic individuals.
“When they believe in their child, others do too. They can support their child by focusing on their strengths, giving them confidence, and helping others understand and accept them. Support means standing by them and not trying to change who they are, but helping them grow in their own way,” says Velho. He points out that autistic people often have many unique strengths, though they can vary widely from person to person.
“These strengths are not always easy to see, especially if the place or people around are not helpful or understanding. But with the right support and kindness, autistic people can do really well and share their talents in their own special way,” he says.
“On Autistic Pride Day, let’s also remember to
include autistic people in our conversations. Let’s listen to their voices, and not just talk about them. Their views matter the most,” says Velho.
