As part of World Autism Awareness Day ‘Light it Up Blue’ campaign, the Hudson River’s both sides are going to be illuminated with blue lights. Autism is a complex brain development disorder that impacts behavior, communication and relationships.

Eight Newport commercial office buildings along the waterfront are going to be among over 10,000 structures worldwide, involving the Empire State Building, exhibited in blue lights. This all will be done with an aim to help promote awareness of autism.

To support those affected by autism, bridges, statues, buildings, schools and homes in over 136 countries will be illuminated in blue. This year is the 10th anniversary of Autism Speaks, an organization that conducts awareness and outreach activities aimed at families, governments, and the public. Autism Speaks is the world's leading science and advocacy organization.

According to autismspeaks.org, the organization is dedicated to funding research and increasing awareness for autism. April is Autism Awareness Month and April 2 is ‘Light It Up Blue Day’. The organization motivates people nationwide to shine a blue light. According to experts, this disorder is currently affecting about 3 million individuals in the US and millions more worldwide.

The Centers for Disease Control said 1 out of 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls in the US are diagnosed with autism. It has been suggested that prevalence rates have mounted 10 to 17% annually. There is no established reason for this ongoing rise. Various universities across the US and around the world have made changes that have eased the transition of the autistic student.

“All universities and colleges are expected to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and state and local requirements regarding individuals with disabilities”, said Shawna Foose, the Assistant Director of the Goldman Office of Disability Services at Tulane University. Adding to it, Foose also said that under these laws, no capable individual with a disability shall be denied access to or involvement in services, programs, and activities.