Every year, the UN chooses a theme to follow for World Autism Day. This year's theme is "Transformation: Toward a Neuro-Inclusive World for All."

This theme acknowledges and honors the effort put forth by Autistic self-advocates. By focusing on moving away from cure ideology and instead focusing on acceptance, support, inclusion, and rights, Autistic people are given the opportunity to gain self-esteem and respect. It allows for focusing on the contributions that Autistic people have made toward society as a whole and is a major transformation for Autistic people and their allies, families, and communities (including the neurodiversity community) allowing for further integration and higher value in society.

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Siblings Day, observed on April 10th, was started as a day to celebrate the bond of siblings. The founder of National Sibling Day, Claudia Evart, chose the date to honor her late sister, Lisette, whose birthday was April 10.

According to SiblingsDay.org, "since 1995, the initial goal of the Siblings Day Foundation (SDF) has been to establish a national day of recognition for brothers and sisters, to be called National Siblings Day, held annually on April 10th. Siblings Day follows the spirit of Mother’s and Father’s Day, an uplifting celebration honoring people who have helped in our development and who have shaped our values, beliefs, and ideals."

Our siblings can be some of the most important people in our lives. They help shape us into the people we become and are our first friends, playmates, and social models. Below are a few examples of ways you can celebrate a sibling (or sibling-like person) in your life:

• Make a card for them
• Give them a call
• Post a photo of yourself and them together and tag it #siblingsday
• Make/share a favorite meal together
• Spend time together; play a game, watch a movie, take a walk, etc!
• Share with them ways that your relationship has shaped you as a person

• How Teachers Can Support Students During Ramadan - PBS
• The Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network
• Autistic Self Advocacy Network
• The Important Role of Sibling Sets with Disabilities - Sibling Leadership Network
• #RedInstead - The Mom Kind
• Autism Symbolism, One Self-Advocate's Perspective
• Disability Inclusion Strategy - UN.org

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