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\nWORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY, 2017<\/p>\n
– – – – – – –<\/p>\n
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA<\/p>\n
A PROCLAMATION\n<\/p>\n
On World Autism Awareness Day, we highlight the importance of addressing the causes and improving the treatments for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). \u00a0We also recognize the importance of identifying ASDs early in a child’s life and of understanding the obstacles faced by people living on the autism spectrum. \u00a0Together, we celebrate the many ways individuals with ASDs enhance our daily lives and make priceless contributions to our schools, workplaces, and communities.<\/p>\n
Autism spectrum disorders affect an estimated one out of every 68 children in America. \u00a0Individuals and families living with autism come from diverse backgrounds. \u00a0These families face enormous challenges in assisting their loved ones over the course of their lifetimes. \u00a0As those with ASDs reach early adulthood, families are often faced with even greater obstacles than during childhood, including planning for the successful transition into adulthood and independent life.<\/p>\n
We are hopeful that our Nation’s efforts will result in significant advancements related to autism diagnosis and treatments in the months and years ahead. \u00a0Ongoing efforts to scan the human genome carry significant potential to better manage the disorder and, ultimately, find a cure. \u00a0My Administration will continue to work with the Congress to implement the 21st Century Cures Act and help to clear the way for breakthroughs in medical science. \u00a0Together, we will turn scientific discoveries into real solutions for people with complex health issues like autism.<\/p>\n
Cutting edge therapies and lifelong treatments can impose enormous burdens and expenses on the families of people with autism spectrum disorders. \u00a0I applaud the efforts by Members of Congress to enact tax-free savings vehicles for families of people with disabilities and ASDs. \u00a0I also encourage the ongoing public-private efforts to develop new technologies to prevent wandering and keep individuals with ASDs safe.<\/p>\n
For generations, men and women living on the autism spectrum have made extraordinary contributions in the fields of science, technology, art, literature, business, politics, and many other professions. \u00a0Yet the world still has a great deal to learn about ASDs. \u00a0We must continue our research to improve early identification and intervention, strengthen our comprehension of the disorder, and open opportunities for every member of our society to live independently and live the American Dream. \u00a0My Administration is committed to promoting greater knowledge of ASDs and encouraging innovation that will lead to new treatments and cures for autism.<\/p>\n
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Sunday, April 2, 2017, as World Autism Awareness Day. \u00a0I invite all Americans to Light it Up Blue, which Melania and I will do at the White House. \u00a0I call upon all Americans to learn more about the signs of autism to improve early diagnosis, understand the challenges faced by those with autism spectrum disorders, and to do what they can to support individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families.<\/p>\n
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
\nthirty-first day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-first.<\/p>\n
DONALD J. TRUMP<\/p>\n