#RedInstead – Changing the Symbolism of Autism Advocacy
Empowered Kids Ontario Ontario has moved from the colour blue for autism awareness to the colour red for autism celebrating neurodiversity.
We as a community are also looking to shift from Autism Awareness to Autism Acceptance.
Reasons to Wear #RedInstead on April 2nd
If you want to show solidarity or support of individuals on the spectrum on World Autism Day, don’t “light it up blue,” wear #RedInstead. Why? The simplest reason is that is what #ActuallyAutistic people are asking you to do. Here is why they are trying to change the symbolism of autism advocacy:
Blue is typically understood to be a symbol of loss, grief, and despair. Not surprisingly, many autistics prefer to be associated with a color that symbolizes fire, passion, and heart.
Some Autistic adults point out that the color blue perpetuates the stereotype that boys are much more likely to be on the spectrum.
Autism awareness isn’t really necessary anymore. Most people already know Autism exists. Autism Acceptance…now that’s something to advocate for. That’s what #RedInstead represents.