What is Light It Up Blue? Light It Up Blue (LIUB) is a unique global initiative to help raise awareness about the growing public health concern that is autism. Light it Up Blue was launched by Autism Speaks in 2010 in support of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), which takes place on April 2. Iconic landmarks around the world Light It Up Blue in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day to show their support! In 2012, Autism Speaks Light It Up Blue campaign continued to raise awareness worldwide. Nearly 3000 structures in over 600 cities, 45 countries and on 6 continents illuminated in blue to shine a bright light on autism. What is World Autism Awareness Day? In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) with the goal of bringing the world’s attention to autism, a pervasive disorder that affects tens of millions globally. WAAD shines a bright light on autism as a growing global health concern. WAAD activities help to increase and develop world knowledge of autism and impart information regarding the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention. Support continues throughout the month of April in much of the world as it is also considered Autism Awareness Month. On October 23, 2012, a World Autism Awareness Day bill was passed by members of the House of Commons in Canada. Bill S-206 officially recognizes April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day in Canada. Liberal Senator Jim Munson remarked that “the passing of this bill demonstrates that Canadian lawmakers care about autism and autism awareness.
