The Newton City Council on Monday night declared June 18 to be Autism Pride Day in Newton.

“Autistic people are a valued and diverse part of our community whose lives, contributions and identities have historically been misunderstood, marginalized or erases,” City Council Vice President David Kalis said before reading a proclamation to the chambers.

Autistic Pride Day started in 2005 by the organization Aspies For Freedom, as way to honor and celebrate people living with autism and raised awareness about what that means. The date June 18 was picked because it was the birthday of one of the organization’s members.

Twenty years later, Autistic Pride Day is going strong, and now it’s recognized by Newton’s city government, which “affirms the right of autistic individuals to be fully visible, included and supported in all areas of life, including education, employment, health care and public life,” City Council President Marc Laredo read from the proclamation.

The idea to include Newton in Autistic Pride Day came from Haley Dale, age 11.

“I learned that I was autistic when I was 7 years old, and it has impacted my life,” Haley said. “I have had many experiences with people treating me differently because of my autism.”

But Haley said she sees her autism as part of herself.

“I can honestly say I wouldn’t be myself if I wasn’t autistic,” she continued. “I embrace my autistic self and the fact that I am who I am.”

Haley suggested her city recognize Autistic Pride Day so other kids with autism can feel that same confidence. And the City Council delivered.

“Honestly, I am so amazed that something an 11-year-old girl suggested got so big,” Haley said with a beaming smile before thanking a bunch of people for helping to make it happen.

The CDC estimates that 1 out of every 31 children aged 8 in America are on the Autism spectrum.