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WHEREAS, autism is a developmental disability that can significantly impair an individual's ability to learn, develop healthy interactive behaviors and understand verbal, nonverbal and reciprocal communication; and,
WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorders currently affect 1 in 110 children, 1 in 70 boys, affecting four times as many boys as girls in the United States, many of whom may be your neighbors or friends who reside in the City of Pittsburgh ; and,
WHEREAS, on December 18, 2007 the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 62/139 World Autism Awareness Day by unanimous consent, encouraging UN Member States to take measures to raise awareness about autism throughout society and to promote early diagnosis and early behavioral intervention; and,
WHEREAS, since 2008, World Autism Awareness Day creates awareness about autism spectrum disorders, which can affect any person regardless of race, religion, socio-economic status or geographic location, by featuring educational events for teachers, health care workers and parents and art exhibitions showcasing artwork created by children with autism; and,
WHEREAS, World Autism Awareness Day will be held Tuesday, April 2, 2013 and marks the sixth annual awareness day across the globe; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Pittsburgh is hosting their 14th annual "Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism Speaks" to be held Saturday, June 1, 2013; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend Autism Speaks for the job they do in educating the public and being an advocate for the autistic community and we honor the parents, family and friends of people affected by autism for their patience and willingness to support life; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare the month of April to be "Autism Speaks Month" in the City of Pittsburgh.