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For Immediate Release [first published on January 5, 2009] In support of United Nations values of human rights, The League to Fight Neurelitism, a nonpartisan and nonsectarian public sociology and advocacy project, officially proclaims the eighth day of February, 2009, and each subsequent second Sunday in Feburary, as Autism Sunday. This annual commemoration, which began in 2008, is also designated as The International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger's Syndrome. As we recognize the difficulties faced by autistics, namely, all persons on the autism spectrum, the League is immensely grateful that the attentions of so many religionists and their congregations will be turned to the autistic community on this day. We would, moreover, encourage these parties to engage in direct dialogue with autistics. The voices of individuals on the autism spectrum, while frequently ignored, are, we believe, those with the most to contribute on this topic. Finally, our hope is that the sincere thoughts, prayers, and affirmations of these communities of faith will, ultimately, be channeled into activism for a considerably greater compliance with The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and related United Nations documents. Autistics, in common with other disabled minorities, actively pursue improved accommodations and access with decreased levels of bigotry and discrimination. Respectfully submitted,
Mark A. Foster, Ph.D. -30- |
