The City of Jasper officially recognized April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month during today’s City Council meeting, with Mayor Josh Gates presenting a proclamation highlighting the importance of inclusion, support, and celebrating the strengths and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum.
The full text of the proclamation is available below.
Community members are also invited to attend the Autism Acceptance Walk on April 25, 2026, from 4 to 5 p.m. at Gamble Park.
Pictured above are Mayor Josh Gates, City Councilmember Jennifer Williams Smith, Autism Acceptance Walk organizer Stephanie Kimbrell, Chloe White, Rory Padbury, Grey Sides, Addi Allred, Charlie Owens, and Dejah and Devan Weaver, along with two parents.
City of Jasper, Alabama
Proclamation
Autism Acceptance Month – April 2026
WHEREAS, April is recognized nationwide and across the State of Alabama as Autism Acceptance Month, a time to promote understanding, inclusion, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum; and
WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction, and current data indicates that approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States has been identified with autism; and
WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month reflects a growing movement to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful acceptance, recognizing autism as a natural part of the human experience and affirming the value, dignity, and contributions of autistic individuals; and
WHEREAS, this month highlights the importance of expanding access to services, supporting families, and creating inclusive environments in schools, workplaces, and communities where individuals of all abilities can thrive; and
WHEREAS, the City of Jasper is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community that embraces neurodiversity and ensures that all individuals are respected, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential; and
WHEREAS, the City of Jasper values programs and partnerships that promote inclusion through movement, literacy, and community engagement, creating meaningful opportunities for individuals of all abilities to connect and succeed; and
WHEREAS, local organizations, educators, families, and advocates in Jasper and Walker County work together to promote acceptance, reduce stigma, and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum; and
WHEREAS, the City of Jasper encourages community participation in events such as the Autism Acceptance Walk, to be held on April 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gamble Park, providing an opportunity for residents to show support, build connections, and celebrate inclusion;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Josh Gates, Mayor of the City of Jasper, Alabama, do hereby proclaim April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month in the City of Jasper and encourage all residents to:
- Promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals on the autism spectrum
- Support practices that create accessible and welcoming spaces throughout our community
- Participate in local events, including the Autism Acceptance Walk
- Celebrate the contributions, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals
