The 2018 "Light It Up Blue" event is set to be held at the Water Cube, also known as the National Aquatics Center, in Beijing on April 2 for the 11th World Autism Awareness Day.

On the theme of "Respecting Difference and Boosting Hope," the annual event calls for more respect, understanding and acceptance of children with autism.

This year's event is planned to include six main parts, namely the Third Development Forum for Teenagers with Special Needs, a "Learn to Live Together" illustration exhibition, swimming lessons for special needs teenagers, a "Running Together" activity, as well as a "Light It Up Blue" gala and ceremony.

At the Third Development Forum for Teenagers with Special Needs, experts on special education and members of public service organizations will discuss the development and employment of teenagers with special needs.

The "Learn to Live Together" exhibition will present nearly 100 winners of the Global Illustration Award. Those works, all portraying the spirit of "respecting difference," are expected to express a common aspiration for a world where children with autism can receive more attention and support.

Shui-mu-nian-hua, a Chinese band with two singers, Chen Yibing, an Olympic champion in men's gymnastics, and Lin Yue, an Olympic diving gold medal winner, will attend the event to raise awareness about autism.

According to a report released in 2016, there are more than 10 million autistic people in China, with 20 percent being children 14 years of age or under.

An iconic building in Beijing, the Water Cube has "lit it up blue" seven times since 2011 to bring more attention to the needs of autistic children in the country.

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)