World Autism Day: Residents speak out on its importance
World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated on Monday, 2 April and Review spoke to several people to find out why they think it is important to celebrate the day.
POLOKWANE – World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) aims to put a spotlight on the hurdles that people with autism – and others living with autism – face every day.
What’s more, World Autism Awareness Day goes one step further to celebrate the unique talents of those with autism, while putting a huge focus on the warm embrace and welcome that these skills deserve through community events around the globe.
Review asked residents whether they know about the significance of the day and why it is important.
Pinky Sithole – I do know thatWorld Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognised day, encouraging us to take measures to raise awareness about people with autism throughout the world.Angelique Kennedy – I do know about World Autism Awareness Day and I know that people wear blue on this day.Descent Baloyi – “I believe that World Autism Awareness Day should be celebrated everywhere because what I know is that most people in South Africa do not celebrate it as other countries do. Children with Autism need as much support as they need because they are limited with and in terms of communication, so I believe we need to support them in any way possible.”Ntaoleng Mazibuko – “Children with Autism need to be considered and celebrated in order for them to feel special and feel the love around them. The children are impaired in social interaction and developmental language and communication and therefore need all kinds of support from the public. So therefore I do think celebrating World Autism Awareness Day is necessary.”Tania de Vos – “World Autism Awareness Day is all about celebrating and taking measures to raise awareness about people with autism throughout the world. I believe South Africa should also get involved in celebrating the day in support of celebrating people with autism. I also know that we should wear royal blue in celebration of people with autism.”Mmatshepho Dinagwe – “I support World Autism Awareness Day because I believe the people who are affected by that need not just the public’s support but the worlds support to rejoice with them in order for us to support them through their struggles.”
