You may have noticed over the years the puzzle piece has been utilized significantly less to represent the Autism Community.
Members of the Autism Community thought the puzzle piece, first used in the 60’s, represented negativity about autism instead of offering a positive perspective. Those who spoke out expressed they felt, “it created the impression that autism was a riddle to be solved or that those with the condition were incomplete.” The community’s criticism of the symbol initiated the process of updating the symbol.
The puzzle piece was later replaced with a rainbow-colored infinity symbol. The infinity symbol represents the idea that autism is a vast and complex spectrum that includes individuals with a wide range of strengths and challenges. It acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to understanding or supporting people with autism. Instead, it emphasizes the need for individualized and person-centered approaches to support people with autism in their unique strengths and challenges.
We are proud that our centers are named after a symbol that truly and inclusively represents the autism community!
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Sources: Good Autism School
