This month is Autism Acceptance Month. Notice the word is “acceptance,” not awareness. Of course, it’s important to be aware that autism exists, but maybe it’s even more important to accept individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has joined the Michigan Departments of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Education, and Health and Human Services as well as the Autism Alliance of Michigan to proclaim April Autism Awareness Month.

“Being an inclusive state means creating and supporting opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential, from a great education where they develop new skills, to a good-paying job where they can apply those skills to support themselves and their families,” Whitmer said in a statement.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines autism spectrum disorder as a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. It says that about one in 44 children has been identified with the disorder, which is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

CDC also says it provides data on ASD, looks for factors that put children at risk and possible causes, and develops resources that help identify children with ASD as early as possible.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity indicated that youths with autism have been identified as the primary emerging population of individuals with a disability in Michigan that is either currently or predicted to be underserved.

The agency said that it, along with the Autism Alliance of Michigan, MDE and MDHHS, have resources for individuals with autism, ranging from identification and diagnosis, to support and intervention. Although treatments and education for children are critical toward improving outcomes for this population, eventually individualized and customized support, comprehensive training and better advocacy and outreach strategies are needed to obtain, maintain and advance employment opportunities, LEO said.

The Autism Alliance of Michigan says it works to create a more “accepting future for all people by cultivating a world rich in diverse abilities, talents and ideas.” It also believes that getting an accurate diagnosis early is key to accessing resources, and beginning early intervention often lays the foundation for later success.

To learn more, visit www.autismallianceofmichigan.org, where the MiNavigator tool offers support and resources. It also lists volunteer opportunities for people who want to get involved in its mission.

We urge people to research autism and learn more about it.

Accepting people with the disorder just as they are goes way beyond simple awareness, and for that we lend our full support.