Autism Awareness Day: Pefoce issued more than 33 thousand identities with ASD symbol in five years

April 2, 2024 – 16:22
autism World Autism Awareness Day Pefoce TEA

On World Autism Awareness Day, the Forensic Expertise of the State of Ceará renews its commitment to inclusion, respect and understanding

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated today, April 2nd. The objective of the date is to promote knowledge about autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as the needs, rights and inclusion of autistic people in society. Based on Federal Decree No. 9,278/2018, which provides for the identification of specific health conditions of people with special needs, the Forensic Expertise of the State of Ceará (Pefoce), linked to the Secretariat of Public Security and Social Defense (SSPDS), carries out the issuance of the National Identification Card (CIN) with the TEA symbol.

In the last five years, Pefoce has already included 33,287 identity cards (RGs) with the symbol representing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), issued from July 2019 until January 10 of this year. To date, Pefoce has also received 3,672 requests for the inclusion of the autism symbol in new National Identity Cards (CINs).

How to request inclusion

To include the ribbon designed with colored puzzle pieces in the identification document, a symbol that represents autism, it is necessary to bring a medical report proving the autistic condition on the day of the appointment. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can characterize atypical development, behavioral manifestations, deficits in communication and social interaction.

With the purpose of promoting more effective inclusion, Pefoce offers an environment specially designed for personalized care for people with autism, located at the headquarters of the Human Identification and Biometric Expertise Coordination (CIHBP). This space was designed to reduce possible sensory crises, providing a calm and welcoming environment, where stimuli are carefully controlled to promote the comfort and well-being of everyone present during the service.

To schedule exclusive service in the room, simply go to the Pefoce website, click on the ‘national card issuance’ tab, continue with the requested information and select the ‘Sensory Room’ option. After scheduling, the person with autism spectrum disorder or their legal representative must present the medical certificate confirming this condition at the CIHPB reception.

This moment is an invitation to reflect, act and move towards a more inclusive and understanding society. It is an opportunity to broaden our horizons and recognize the needs, rights and value of people on the autism spectrum. On this World Autism Awareness Day, Pefoce renews its commitment to inclusion, respect and understanding.