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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF AUTISM SPEAKS DURING NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3, and impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function; and,
WHEREAS, Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities; and,
WHEREAS, Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls, and its prevalence is not affected by race, region, or socio-economic status. Since autism was first diagnosed in the U.S. the incidence has climbed to an alarming one in 68 children in the U.S.; and,
WHEREAS, Autism itself does not affect life expectancy, however research has shown that the mortality risk among individuals with autism is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to drowning and other accidents; and,
WHEREAS, Currently there is no cure for autism, though with early intervention and treatment, the diverse symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved and in some cases completely overcome; and,
WHEREAS, Autism Speaks, a national research and advocacy organization whose Chicago chapter resides in the 10th District, is dedicated to promoting solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions; and,
WHEREAS, Building upon the legacy of three leading autism organizations, Autism Coalition for Research and Education (ACRE), the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) and Cure Autism Now (CAN), who merged with the organization, Autism Speaks has made extraordinary advancements in the autism community. Chief among these are increased global awareness of autism, better understanding of the breadth of the autism spectrum, and advocacy to increase research and access to care and support; and,
WHEREAS, Today, Autism Speaks is dedicated to advancing research into causes and better treatments for autism spectrum disorders and related conditions both through direct funding and collaboration; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorders; and working toward solutions for the needs of individuals with autism and their families across the spectrum and lifespan through advocacy and support; and,
WHEREAS, Locally, schools throughout Chicago and Cook County who offer support and specialized and innovative curriculum and programming to children diagnosed with autism are commended for their work during this month, including Agassiz Elementary, Coonley Elementary and the Chicago Agriculture High School.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes the month of April as Autism Awareness Month and commends Autism Speaks for their continued research and advocacy in the autism community, and our local neighborhood schools who do year-round work to support and advocate for autism awareness.end