Autism Acceptance at Hofstra
The infinity symbol on the autistic pride flag symbolizes neurodiversity while the rainbow colors convey multiple meanings including the pride movement. // Photo courtesy of Autistic Empire
April is dedicated to raising awareness for a variety of topics, like stress and alcohol. This month is also recognized as Autism Acceptance Month, which carries a great deal of importance for the autistic community on campus and nationwide.
Hofstra students, both those with and without autism, see the value of this month and have voiced their support for it.
“To me, I think that Autism Acceptance Month is more so just making sure that everyone is sort of aware of those who do have autism,” said A’mari Bosley, a freshman television and film major. “With that, everyone is making sure that they are understanding of different situations, but also making sure that, in whatever capacity they can, they can aid those with autism in any aspect that they need.”
Advocates from the autistic community have urged to place more emphasis on acceptance rather than awareness, which is how the month has previously been identified. According to the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the term “acceptance” is preferred, citing that it helps to destigmatize autism.
“I think that we all need to come together and recognize all of the issues that still face us with being more accepting of the autistic community,” said undecided freshman Allison Berg.
Autism acceptance is especially important in an academic setting, as many autistic students require accommodations to aid in their success.
“[We] want to make sure that whatever needs they might have in the classroom setting to be able to succeed, we are trying to provide that,” said Kimberly Gilbert, the associate professor of psychology and director of Hofstra’s Diagnostic and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center.
The clinic provides services like therapy and diagnoses to people on and off campus, with age groups ranging from babies to senior citizens.
“I think that we provide, at the Diagnostic Clinic, opportunities for social skills and building those social skills,” Gilbert said. “I also think that we do a good job, hopefully, of providing individual therapy for those that are struggling with anxiety or depression in the college place.”
Some have noted the lack of recognition of Autism Acceptance Month at Hofstra.
“I would not really say that Hofstra is taking [Autism Acceptance Month] seriously because I have not really seen a lot around campus for it or about it,” said Thomas Gossman, a junior computer science major.
Berg shared a similar sentiment.
“One thing I will say is that I do not really see a lot of recognition of Autism Acceptance Month on campus. I kind of wish that it was acknowledged a bit more,” she said. “I think that it would make everybody a little bit more understanding of the difficulties that people on the spectrum face. A little bit more recognition by the university would be nice.”
