Bergen’s Promise supported World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) by donning their bluest attire. For the past six years, the organization Autism Speaks celebrates with a “Light it Up Blue” campaign for WAAD. Each year, thousands of buildings are lit up blue and events are held across the world. Many show their support by wearing blue, and on social media many people are turning their profile pictures blue along with using the hashtag #LIUB (#LightItUpBlue) to help spread awareness.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of pervasive developmental disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.
All autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD since the publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual in May 2013. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1 in 68 American children fall on the autism spectrum.
