A Month of Awareness and Acceptance

April marks both Autism Acceptance Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. There’s going to be all kinds of information shared, hashtags created, and events posted...which sounds really great, right? While it is exciting to see so much light being shed on these important topics, it’s also important to keep in mind that there’s a difference between being a real ally and spreading misinformation.

Educating yourself is a great first step, but that doesn’t mean you should stick to journal articles or the opinions of medical professionals. Neurodiversity is exactly that - DIVERSE. Check out the perspectives and experiences of #actuallyautistics to get a better understanding of what life is truly like for a person with autism. You can search online, follow social media pages, or look for books/podcasts to hear first-hand experiences.

If you come across an #actuallyautistic piece that you really enjoy, share it! Promote the voices of people with autism to show that they’re heard, and that their opinions are valid. Who better to teach us how to be accepting?

If you are neurotypical, or have neurotypical kids, take a minute to reflect and think about how you interact with or respond to people who are neurodiverse. We need to be educating kids on neurodiversity, the same way we talk about sexism, racism, and homophobia. We can’t leave an entire marginalized group out of discussions on acceptance and equality.

When it comes to sexual assault awareness, we have to start by accepting the fact that you probably know someone who’s been affected (whether they’ve shared openly or not). Sexual violence is so widespread, that it’s nearly impossible to not come into contact with a survivor, or someone who is/has supported a survivor. A big first step is to create safe spaces around you. Call out jokes about rape. Interrupt the friend that cat-calls women. Challenge someone who victim-blames.

Promote agencies who advocate for survivors. Follow them on social media, make a donation, volunteer to help. If you know someone who supports survivors through their work, thank them. Sexual and domestic violence rates rose dramatically during the pandemic, and many social service workers are feeling the exhaustion of supporting themselves and others through these experiences. Remind them that their efforts matter.

April 6th is Sexual Assault Awareness Month’s day of action, so wear teal to show your support for survivors. Tell someone why you chose to support the cause, and encourage them to do the same. Many small acts of recognition and support are what helps to remind survivors that we are here.

We see you. We believe we. We support you. This month, and all year long.

Jordann Mason

Community Outreach Director