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A Global Challenge
One Message...
Many voices...
Autism is not limited to a single region or a country;
it is a worldwide challenge that requires global action.
Although developmental disabilities such as autism
begin in childhood,
they persist throughout a person’s life.
Our work with and for people with autism
should include early identification
and treatment, therapies
educational plans and other steps
that lead us towards sustained,
lifelong engagement.
Kelly would refuse to go to school on April fool's day.
She would refuse.
Because she didn't want to be the target of anybody's mishaps.
Reaching out to people with autism spectrum disorders
requires global political commitment
and better international cooperation,
especially in sharing good practices.
Greater investments in the social,
education and labour sectors
are crucially important,
since developed and developing countries alike
still need to improve their capacities
to address the unique needs
of people with autism
and cultivate their many talents.
This therapy turned into art for him.
All of a sudden he was creating these
unbelievable works of art
out of clay.
The annual observance of World Autism Awareness Day
is meant to draw attention to
the unacceptable discrimination and isolation
experienced by people with autism
and their loved ones.
As highlighted by the Convention
on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,
people with autism are equal citizens
who should enjoy all human rights
and fundamental freedoms.
Let us all continue to join hands
to enable people with autism
and other neurological differences
to realize their potential and enjoy
the opportunities and well-being
that are their birthright.
Text: United Nations Secretary-General's Message on
World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), 2012
The persons participating in this video
are United Nations staff members
whose families have been touched by Autism.
Images: Animating Autism (Directed by Sean Feely and John Gross)
For more UN videos visit: www.un.org/webcast