“Light it up blue” is a project launched by the organization “Autism Speaks”, which involves illuminating major monuments in cities around the world in blue to raise awareness about autism. On the occasion of the World Autism Awareness Day in 2024, Rome’s airports illuminated the fountain at Fiumicino airport in blue to highlight their commitment to promoting the full realization of human rights, freedom, and equality. The airport also provides support to passengers through concrete actions and services, such as using Accessiway technology to ensure that their web pages are accessible to all users, and the invaluable assistance provided by dedicated and qualified staff of ADRAssistance. One of their initiatives to support autistic passengers and their families is the “Autism Project – traveling through the airport”, a collaboration between ENAC and ADR Assistance. This project offers recommendations and tips to caregivers to help autistic children and adults face their journey with confidence, making their flights even more special.
The Municipality of Fiumicino also joined the awareness campaign by illuminating the Ponte due Giugno in blue in the evening. This gesture, although symbolic, demonstrates their commitment and willingness to promote awareness and social inclusion through targeted initiatives, ensuring support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families who are involved in a very complex management on a daily basis. The Social Policies Councillor, Monica Picca, emphasized the importance of supporting people with autism and their families, recognizing the challenges they face and the need for greater awareness and inclusivity in society.
The “Light it up blue” campaign aims to shine a light on autism and promote understanding and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum. By illuminating major monuments and landmarks in blue, cities around the world are uniting in raising awareness and showing support for the autism community. The initiative by Autism Speaks and Rome’s airports to light up the fountain at Fiumicino airport and the Ponte due Giugno in blue sends a powerful message of solidarity and recognition of the rights and needs of individuals with autism.
The commitment of Rome’s airports to supporting autistic passengers goes beyond just illuminating monuments in blue. Through initiatives like the “Autism Project – traveling through the airport”, they provide practical assistance and guidance to caregivers to help autistic individuals navigate their journey with ease. By ensuring accessible web pages and dedicated staff, they aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for passengers with autism. This demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring the rights and well-being of all passengers, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
In a world where inclusivity and understanding are paramount, initiatives like “Light it up blue” play a crucial role in promoting awareness and acceptance of autism. By engaging in symbolic acts like illuminating monuments in blue, cities and organizations are contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism and their families. The commitment shown by Rome’s airports and the Municipality of Fiumicino in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing and accommodating the needs of diverse communities. By coming together to raise awareness and promote inclusivity, we can create a more welcoming and understanding world for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
