Autism Acceptance Month is an opportunity to celebrate the progress made in making sure that autistic people are fully accepted and supported in our society, as well as thinking about what still needs to be done to create a society where everyone has the same rights and opportunities.
This year, we wanted to go further than acceptance and to find out what makes people proud to be autistic. We are pleased to share what people had to say here today.
Everyone we spoke to is an autistic person who has a learning disability.
Some people told us about the day-to-day things they’re proud of as autistic people:
- “I’m proud of having a job.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
- “I’m proud of my autism-assistance dog.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
- “I’m proud of being married.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
Some people talked about the positives they find in their differences from allistic people: 
- “What makes me proud to be autistic is having a different way of experiencing the world.” – Tony
- “Wanting to be free. Wanting to be me. Trying to make people see. And accept the real me.” – Andy (Bild for the Future)
- “I am proud of the difference.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
Some people talked about self-acceptance and how proud they are to have a positive outlook on autism:
- “It’s not a puzzle piece to be solved or fixed. Instead, it is a Mosaic, which should be celebrated.” – Andy (Bild for the Future)
- “I am proud of myself for being myself.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
- “Behind every autistic trait is a strength the world has yet to fully appreciate.” – Andy (Bild for the Future)
- “I am proud to be autistic and human.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
- “I am proud of who I am.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
Some people talked about how they find that being autistic helps them overcome challenges:
- “Everyone has a mountain to climb, and autism has not been my mountain, it has been my opportunity for victory.” – Andy (Bild for the Future)
- “I am proud of how quickly I learn something new.” – Worcester Monday Night Club member
- “Anything Is possible! If I can do it, so can you!” – Andy (Bild for the Future)
Finally, we want to leave you with an important reminder that despite challenges, the world is full of autistic people living happy, fulfilling lives:
You can find out more about Autism Acceptance Month and the work you can do to support the initiative at the National Autistic Society website.