April Month Long Observances

• Arab American Heritage Month

• Deaf History Month

• Genocide Awareness Month

• Sexual Assault Awareness Month

• Scottish-American Month

World Autism Month

World Autism Month is observed every April to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to promote acceptance, inclusion, and understanding of individuals on the autism spectrum. It aims to highlight the challenges faced by people with autism and their families, as well as celebrate their contributions to society, fostering a better understanding of autism throughout the month.

April 1 - National Day of Action

Each year, on the first Tuesday of April, the National Day of Action occurs to raise awareness of sexual assault and violence prevention. This day is nationally recognized in the United States and is part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Its goal is to educate the public to stop sexual violence before it happens. Since 2004, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center has promoted this day as part of efforts to end sexual violence.

Teal the official color of SAAM, was adopted by sexual violence coalitions across the country in 2000. The color symbolizes healing, trust, and devotion and represents the coming together of genders to support survivors. The teal ribbon serves as a symbol of awareness and prevention.

You can make a difference by wearing teal with your friends and loved ones on April 1st to spread awareness and support those who have faced sexual violence.

April 2 - International Autism Acceptance Day

This day promotes understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals on the autism spectrum. It focuses on recognizing their unique strengths and contributions in various fields, including education, the arts, technology, and advocacy. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting autistic individuals and encouraging society to create more inclusive environments that support and celebrate neurodiversity.

April 9 - International Day of Pink

This is an annual event celebrated on the second Wednesday of April and stands against bullying, discrimination, homophobia, and transphobia while promoting kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. This day was created after a group of students in Canada witnessed another student being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. Participants are encouraged to wear pink to show support for LGBTQ+ rights and to advocate for a more inclusive, respectful, and safer society.

April 11 - LGBTQIA+ Day of Silence

The Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ students and allies around the world take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in schools. Started in the mid 90’s by two college students, the event has expanded to reach hundreds of thousands of students each year. Every April, participants remain silent throughout the school day, spreading awareness by sharing their experiences with written notes.