City Council:
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AN ANNUAL
AUTISM AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE
DAY IN THE CITY OF MOUNT VERNON
Whereas, by correspondence dated April 14, 2026, the Legislative Assistant to the Mount Vernon City Council formally requested authorization to designate, commencing in 2026, the fourth Saturday of April of each year as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day in the City of Mount Vernon; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon is committed to fostering an inclusive, compassionate, and supportive community for all residents; and
Whereas, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects individuals and families across all communities, and increased awareness and acceptance are essential to ensuring equal opportunities and full participation in society; and
Whereas, promoting understanding and acceptance of individuals with autism helps reduce stigma, encourages inclusion, and strengthens the social fabric of the City; and
Whereas, individuals with autism, along with their families, caregivers, advocates, and service providers, make invaluable contributions to the cultural, social, and economic vitality of the City of Mount Vernon; and
Whereas, the City Council seeks to recognize and uplift the lived experiences of individuals with autism and to encourage policies and practices that promote belonging, accessibility, and inclusion; and
Whereas, establishing a dedicated day of recognition will provide an opportunity for community engagement, education, and celebration of neurodiversity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Mount Vernon, New York, as follows:
Section 1. Title. This Ordinance shall be known as the “Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day Ordinance.”
Section 2. Establishment of Annual Observance. Beginning in the year 2026, the fourth Saturday of April of each year is hereby designated as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day in the City of Mount Vernon.
Section 3. Purpose of Observance. Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day shall serve as an opportunity for the City to:
(a) Promote awareness and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder throughout the community;
(b) Highlight and share the lived experiences of individuals with autism and their families;
(c) Recognize the contributions of advocates, service providers, educators, and caregivers; and
(d) Encourage inclusive practices that foster belonging, accessibility, and equity for all residents.
Section 4. City Participation and Activities. The City of Mount Vernon is encouraged to support and promote activities in recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day, which may include, but are not limited to:
(a) Public events, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives;
(b) Partnerships with local organizations, schools, and advocacy groups;
(c) Proclamations, informational campaigns, and public service announcements; and
(d) Efforts to illuminate City facilities or display symbols in support of autism awareness and acceptance.
Section 5. Inclement Weather Provision. In the event of inclement weather or other conditions that prevent the observance from being held as planned, the City may designate an alternate date to ensure activities are conducted in a safe, meaningful, and accessible manner.
Section 6. Administration. The Mayor, or the Mayor’s designee, in coordination with relevant City departments and community stakeholders, is authorized to take such actions as may be necessary to implement and promote the annual observance.
Section 7. Severability. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Ordinance shall be adjudged by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder thereof.
Section 8. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption by the City Council.