As part of the “Choose Red for Autism” campaign launched to make autistic citizens more visible in social life, Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality lit up its service buildings in red on 2 April, World Autism Awareness Day.

The Department of Disability and Elderly Services organised an event as part of World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, which was designated by the United Nations (UN) to raise awareness. In addition to increasing public awareness of autism, the event also drew attention to the importance of autistic citizens taking an equal and active place in all areas of life.

The lights stayed on until morning

On this special day declared by the UN, emphasis was placed on the fact that autism is not a deficiency but a difference, and Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality made this approach visible across the city. As part of the event carried out under the coordination of the Department of Disability and Elderly Services, Sümerpark Common Living Area, Şehitlik Respite House, Kayapınar Respite House and Parkorman Active Living Centre were illuminated in red from sunset onwards. These red lights, shining from different parts of the city, remained on until the early hours of the morning, sending a strong message.

The message “Choose Red for Autism” appeared across the city

Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality did not limit the campaign to lighting alone. Billboards bearing the message “Choose Red for Autism” were also placed in different parts of the city as a direct call to citizens. Through the billboards, the aim was to raise awareness about autism, increase public sensitivity and promote a culture of inclusive living.

The main purpose of the event was not limited to lighting up buildings. Through the initiative, it was also aimed to ensure that the needs of autistic citizens are better understood, to make the difficulties they face in daily life more visible, and to further strengthen their place in social life.