SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, April 2, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — The George S. Eccles Legacy Bridge, located at the University of Utah, was lit up blue in honor of World Autism Awareness Day Saturday night.
The University of Utah is recognized worldwide for its autism research. A statement by the University said it does this annually to bring awareness to the state’s autism rates, which are consistently above average, with one in 54 children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.
Mayor Jackie Biskupski also called for the City County Building to be lit blue on Saturday and is expected to issue a proclamation declaring April Autism Awareness Month in Salt Lake City.
“Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States and in the state of Utah,” Biskupski said. “While we have taken great strides in diagnosing and treating the condition, a diagnosis of autism continues to bring emotional, financial, and societal stress to countless families in our area.”
Salt Lake City voluntarily provides a robust insurance plan that covers autism. The Mayor’s Office is also committed to addressing issues of employment and access for people with disabilities.
