Creating Space for Understanding and Community: UTA Libraries Hosts Autism Acceptance Month Event

Join the UTA Libraries' Advocates for Disability and Accessibility Committee for a special Autism Acceptance Month event Tuesday, April 15, from noon to 2 p.m. in Room 109 of the Central Library. This interactive event will feature educational booths focused on the history of Autism, common myths and misconceptions, advocacy efforts and the resources available on campus for students, faculty and staff. 

More Than Awareness—Starting Conversations 

Collin Stephenson, Advocates for Disability and Accessibility Committee member, hopes the event will spark meaningful dialogue. 

"Our event is in coordination with nationwide events for Autism Acceptance Month. We wanted to focus on a couple of areas of what Autism means. A big part of that is equipping people to be more empathetic and understanding of what the meaning of Autism is for a lot of people," Stephenson said. "Especially because modern definitions of Autism focus it on being a spectrum. That means one Autistic person can have a very different life experience than another person." 

The Mayo Clinic Autism website states that Spectrum Disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, which can cause difficulties in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term spectrum in Autism refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity. 

Stephenson stated that historically, the experiences of Autistic people have been very damaging in a lot of places, but that is changing.   

Stephenson emphasized that Autism is a spectrum—and each individual experiences it uniquely. He noted that society's understanding of Autism has changed drastically over time and stressed the importance of continued advocacy. 

"A hundred years ago, Autism treatment methods were often harmful and discriminatory," he said. "It's essential that we honor the voices of Autistic individuals and acknowledge that history—so we can work toward a brighter, more inclusive future here at UTA and beyond." 

What to Expect at the Event 

The event will feature booths covering various topics, including the history of Autism and the local, campus, and national resources available to the UTA community. Learn about advocacy groups such as the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, and view video stories featuring testimonies from Autistic individuals sharing their lived experiences. 

Jessica Haws, Advocates for Disability and Accessibility Committee member emphasized the significance of creating space for authentic voices. 

"This event gives a voice to Autistic individuals in our community," Haws said. "We're not only offering resources and education but also creating a space for meaningful conversations and visibility." 

From Awareness to Acceptance 

Autism Acceptance Month began as Autism Awareness Day in 1970. Over time, the language evolved to reflect a deeper goal—not just knowing about Autism but actively working to include and support Autistic individuals. 

"Nationally, the name of this month was changed from awareness to acceptance. It was one of those small but mighty changes. Awareness does not mean much because it does not invite people to think about their behavior. It just says, 'Do you know that this exists?" Stephenson said. "Acceptance is a word that challenges us to say, 'Are we doing the best that we can do to bring everybody into our community?'"  

An Invitation to Listen, Learn and Support 

Both Stephenson and Haws along with event team members, Jeffrey McCulley and Chloé Bennett encourage students, faculty, and staff to attend the event—not only to learn more about Autism but to listen to the voices of Autistic individuals and better understand the diversity of experiences within the community. 

Whether you're seeking information, looking to support a friend or colleague, or want to grow in empathy and understanding, this event is a meaningful opportunity to engage. 

To find more information about the event or other inclusive programming at UTA Libraries, visit the UTA Libraries website or follow along on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or X.