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.
The event concluded with a powerful call to action by The Arc of Massachusetts CEO Maura Sullivan, reminding all in attendance that strong advocacy is essential to protecting the future of the autism community.
Thank you to all who attended and took action, and a special thank you to the Flutie Foundation and Spectrum of Sound for their incredible performance that kicked off the event.
