Memorandum
Date: April 28, 2026
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Brad Rasmussen, Chair, District 4 Supervisor
Subject: Adopt Proclamation Designating April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month in Lake County
Executive Summary:
DESIGNATING APRIL 2026 AS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH IN LAKE COUNTY
WHEREAS, April 2026 is recognized as Autism Acceptance Month, a time dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and respect for autistic individuals; and
WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month is observed annually from April 1 through April 30 and represents a continued effort to move beyond awareness toward genuine acceptance and meaningful inclusion; and
WHEREAS, autistic individuals are valued members of our community whose unique perspectives, talents, and contributions enrich our schools, workplaces, and civic life; and
WHEREAS, fostering acceptance means recognizing autistic individuals as complete human beings, embracing neurodiversity, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all to thrive; and
WHEREAS, families, educators, advocates, and organizations play a vital role in creating supportive and inclusive environments that empower autistic individuals to reach their full potential; and
WHEREAS, the shift from “awareness” to “acceptance,” formally adopted in 2021, reflects the voices and leadership of autistic self-advocates who have long called for dignity, respect, and inclusion; and
WHEREAS, building a more inclusive community requires ongoing commitment to understanding, compassion, accessibility, and the celebration of differences;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED the Lake County Board of Supervisors designates April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month, and encourages all residents to promote acceptance, foster inclusion, and celebrate the diversity that strengthens our community.
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, are treated with dignity, respect, and provided opportunities to fully participate in all aspects of community life.
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☐ Economic Development ☐ Infrastructure ☐ County Workforce
☐ Community Collaboration ☐ Business Process Efficiency ☐ Clear Lake
Recommended Action: Adopt Proclamation Designating April 2026 as Autism Acceptance Month in Lake County