Pearland Police Department’s Autism Acceptance Month (April 2023)The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that about 1 in 36 children and nearly 5.5 million adults in the United States have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This month the Pearland Police Department will be joining other departments around the country in recognizing Autism Acceptance Month. In recent years, the month of April has changed from using the title Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month. Many people have wondered, what is the difference? With autism awareness, the focus was aimed towards informing and educating the general public about autism, its symptoms, and impact on individuals and families. Autism acceptance goes beyond awareness and places emphasis on understanding, inclusion, and equal opportunities. It focuses on supporting and valuing Autistic individuals by recognizing their unique strengths and challenges. To show their support for Autism Awareness, the Pearland Police Department has designed a uniform patch and embroidered logo to be worn by Pearland Officers throughout the month of April. When not on an active scene, their officers are always willing to interact with the community by providing helpful information, posing for photographs, or simply greeting you with a smile. If you see one of their officers wearing their Autism uniform this month, feel free to stop by and visit with them!