Presidential Documents

19265 

Federal Register 

Vol. 76, No. 67 

Thursday, April 7, 2011 

Title 3— 

The President 

Proclamation 8647 of April 1, 2011 

World Autism Awareness Day, 2011 

By the President of the United States of America 

A Proclamation 

With autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affecting nearly one percent of children in the United States, autism is an urgent public health issue with 

a profound impact on millions of Americans. World Autism Awareness 

Day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of individuals with 

ASDs and rededicate ourselves to the cause of understanding and responding 

to autism. 

Men and women on the autism spectrum have thrived and excelled in 

communities across America and around the world. Yet, despite great 

progress in understanding ASDs, challenges remain for these individuals 

and their loved ones. For too long, the needs of people living with autism 

and their families have gone without adequate support and understanding. 

While we continue to encourage the development of resources for children 

on the autism spectrum and provide necessary resources for their families, 

we must also remember that young people with ASDs become adults with 

ASDs who deserve our support, our respect, and the opportunity to realize 

their highest aspirations. 

As our understanding of the autism spectrum grows, my Administration 

remains dedicated to supporting children and adults impacted by autism. 

Led by the Department of Health and Human Services, we have expanded 

investments in autism research, public health tracking, early detection, and 

services—from early intervention for children to improved long-term services 

and support programs for adults. My Administration maintains a firm commitment to advance autism research and treatment, as well as promote 

education, employment, and equality for all individuals with autism, from 

early childhood through employment and community life. We will continue 

to work with the Congress, experts, and families to improve Federal and 

State programs that assist individuals with ASDs and their families and 

to bolster the impact and reach of community support and services. I encourage all Americans to visit www.HHS.gov/autism for more information and 

resources on ASDs. 

With each breakthrough in research and each innovative treatment, we open 

endless possibilities for the many American families who have been touched 

by autism. As we mark World Autism Awareness Day, let us recommit 

to improving the lives of individuals and families impacted by ASDs and 

creating a world free from discrimination where all can achieve their fullest 

potential. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States 

of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 

and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2 of each 

year as World Autism Awareness Day. I call upon the people of the United 

States to learn more about autism and what they can do to support individuals 

on the autism spectrum and their families. 


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19266 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 67 / Thursday, April 7, 2011 / Presidential Documents 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 

April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence 

of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth. 

[FR Doc. 2011–8445 

Filed 4–6–11; 8:45 am] 

Billing code 3195–W1–P 


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