Autistic Pride Day: Celebrating 7 global achievers with autism spectrum disorder

Autistic Pride Day is celebrated annually on June 18 to raise awareness about autism and the importance of pride for autistic individuals. This day acknowledges the abilities, qualities, and distinctive viewpoints of people on the autism spectrum. Let's learn more about the condition and 7 global achievers who have made a name for themselves in their respective fields by surpassing the barriers of their medical condition.

What is Autism?

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental illness that affects a person's capacity for interaction and communication. Because of the wide range of variability in the kind and severity of symptoms, it is known as a spectrum disorder.

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Global achievers with autism

1) Elon Musk

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As the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Elon Musk is one of the most well-known names in modern technology. Despite his diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome, which is a kind of autism, Musk has become one of the richest persons in the world and is still pushing the envelope in space exploration and clean energy.

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2) Greta Thunberg

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Greta Thunberg is an environmental activist from Sweden. Revealing about her diagnosis on X, formerly Twitter, she said 'I have Asperger¡¯s, and that means I¡¯m sometimes a bit different from the norm. And, given the right circumstances, being different is a superpower¡­'. She raises awareness of climate change on the platform in addition to sharing her experiences of being an activist on the spectrum.

3) Sia

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Sia, 48, an Australian singer and multiple Grammy nominee, is most renowned for her major tunes, including Titanium and Chandelier. Over the years, she has also been extremely open about her battles with mental health, including thoughts of suicide, addiction, and depression. In a May 2023 episode of Rob Has a Podcast, Sia declared, 'I'm on the spectrum.'

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4) Wentworth Miller

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Wentworth Miller, an American-British actor and screenwriter, became well-known for his role in the Fox series Prison Break. In July 2021, Miller shared his diagnosis of autism on Instagram, a post that has since been removed, according to People. Miller, 51, stated on Instagram, 'This fall marks 1 year since I received my informal autism diagnosis.'

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5) Dan Aykroyd

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Renowned comedian and actor Dan Aykroyd has acted in films like The Blues Brothers and Ghostbusters. In his 50s, he received a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome. Following this, Aykroyd utilized his platform to spread awareness of autism and has been transparent about his diagnosis. Additionally, he has participated in a number of charities and organizations that support autism.

6) Alex Reid

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At the age of 45, Celebrity Big Brother winner Alex Reid received an Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis. The former MMA fighter claims he has always felt different. After meeting a random family that just so happened to have an autistic child, Alex unintentionally learned that he might have Asperger's syndrome after even the parents saw similarities between him and their child during a conversation.

7) Susan Boyle

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Scottish singer Susan Boyle became well-known after participating in the reality series Britain's Got Talent. Since receiving her Asperger's syndrome diagnosis in 2012, she has been transparent about her experiences with the condition. Boyle has overcome difficulties with social contact and communication to become a well-liked figure in the music industry.

As a society, it is important for us to understand that all humans are born equal and no matter our differences all of us deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Through the celebration of the day, we hope to combat the stigma faced by autistic individuals by creating equal opportunities for them.

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