This is the puzzle piece that is used universally as a symbol for autism awareness. It is used by many small groups and organizations such as Autism Speaks to advocate for the inclusion of those on the autism spectrum into society.
This puzzle piece, and any item on which it appears, mean a lot to my family and I. In 2005, my younger brother Evan was diagnosed with autism. It is something that has completely effected our family dynamic in both positive and negative ways, but it is also something you cannot change. I wouldn’t;t change my brother, and I am proud of the person he has become. He now confidently plays a variety of instruments of stage, excels in school, and enjoys the social activities that come with being a sophomore in high school.
Because of Evan’s diagnosis, I now recognize the importance of not stigmatizing autism. Many people feel uncomfortable talking about disabilities, and this causes false assumptions to circulate. It is important to be open, and discuss issues like this, so those with autism are not isolated from our society. As a future social worker, even though I will not explicitly be working with those who have learning disabilities, it is important for every social worker to advocate for populations that are oppressed or underprivileged.