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Local creator proposes 'Autism Welcome' decal to promote acceptance in Deltona businesses
Summary
Angela Hart presented the Autism Welcome decal at the June 12 Deltona commission workshop, describing the symbol's purpose to encourage acceptance and asking the city to consider visibility for the decal in local businesses and public facilities.
Angela Hart presented the Autism Welcome decal to the Deltona commission at the June 12 workshop and described the symbol’s origin, purpose and current distribution efforts.
Hart said she created the autism welcome decal in 2013 inspired by her adult son and that the initiative is intended to promote acceptance and make public spaces more welcoming: “Acceptance is what our families crave more than anything.” She cited a recent Centers for Disease Control statistic as context for the effort, saying the current rate is “1 in 36.”
Hart described using the decal in stores and at venues during pilot “test‑drive” visits to help families feel comfortable entering public places. She said the decals are not a commercial venture for profit and that she intends to provide materials affordably to businesses that agree to display the symbol.
Commissioners thanked Hart and asked follow‑up questions about placement and visibility. No formal city action was requested at the workshop; Hart said she will continue outreach to businesses and organizations and noted interest from other venues outside Deltona.
Hart closed by reiterating the message she wants the decal to convey: opening doors, opening hearts and creating smiles for people with autism and their families.
