Observed on June 18, the day champions inclusion, combats stigma, and urges society to embrace autism as a natural neurological difference
New Delhi: June 17, 2025
World Autistic Pride Day is celebrated every year on June 18 to raise acceptance and awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at a global level. The 2025 theme is “Unapologetically Autistic”. This starts a conversation asking people on the autism spectrum to be confident in who they are, and to let go of the expectation to fit-in.
First observed in Brazil in 2005, the initiative was started by autistic advocates Gareth and Amy Nelson, and has since evolved into a worldwide celebration of neurodiversity. It underscores the idea that autism is not a flaw, but a natural variation of the human brain one that brings unique perspectives, creativity, and strengths.
Autism generally presents itself in the earliest years of life, and is evidenced through communication, behaviour, and social engagement. Statistically, it affects approximately 1 in every 110 children and among these measured cases, the prevalence ratio of males to females is even higher.
This observance is about more than just awareness (i.e. seeing autism as a disability); and more broadly it speaks to stigma, equity like opportunities, and celebrating the richness of ways, people experience and understand the world.
As many societies are generating a culture of inclusiveness, World Autism Pride Day will continue to dismantle previous conversations on autism as a cure/correct issue and instead embrace acceptance and empowerment.
