Today, April 2nd 2016, is the 8th annual World Autism Awareness Day. Autism is a mental condition, present from early childhood, diagnosed by a number of factors. Such as, difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with others and showing challenge in using language and abstract concepts to interact with the world. Autism Speaks is an organization in the US that advocates autism research and conducts outreach programs and activities.

This year, several world-renowned monuments will be lighting up blue to join in on spreading autism awareness. Landmarks such as the Great Buddha of Hyogo in Kobe, Japan, Maddison Square Garden and One World Trade Center in New York City, along with several other remarkable structures in over 140 countries will be lighting up blue today. In addition, several celebrities such as, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Carole King, and Jesse McCartney have all pledged to wear blue to raise awareness.

But why is raising awareness so important? Autism is a mental disorder in which an individual can thrive and lead an incredibly successful life with. However, 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism spectrum disorder, yet the knowledge of the conditions are very limited by the average person. By raising awareness for autism, we can create a welcoming and understanding world for those affected to live as normally as possible and flourish both personally and professionally.

Raising awareness is much more than monetary donations and wearing a blue shirt. Raising awareness is about becoming informed and accepting the inspiring autistic community. Autism is not a disease that needs to be cured, it is something that needs to be understood. Each individual act of acceptance is one step closer to an inclusive world for all.

To learn more about autism and the Autism Speaks Foundation, visit autismspeaks.org and remember to light it up blue today! Autism speaks, it's time to listen.