21st Annual Autism Advocacy Day -
Safeguarding Our Future: Defending Critical Services for the Autism Community

On Wednesday, April 8, more than 400 advocates, families, legislators, staff, and officials gathered at the Massachusetts State House for the 21st Annual Autism Advocacy Day. This year’s theme was “Safeguarding Our Future: Defending Critical Services for the Autism Community.”

The event featured powerful remarks from Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Secretary Dr. Kiame Mahaniah, who presented Governor Maura Healey’s proclamation of April as Autism Awareness Month in Massachusetts. Ashley and Alden Waring spoke about transition planning, while Gyasi Burks-Abbott highlighted the importance of services and supports.

We were also proud to honor our legislative champions Senator Paul Feeney and Senator Vanna Howard as Distinguished Legislators of the Year and Jeremy Spittle as our first-ever Distinguished Staff Champion. Their leadership and commitment to the autism community are truly inspirational.