It takes on several different forms and names — educating, consciousness raising, raising awareness. It is an easy first step to inform someone of an idea or opinion. It can spread like wildfire, especially in the age of social media, and take over an area. Raising awareness, especially for commonly misunderstood issues like autism, is incredibly important. 

The steps that follow raising awareness are critical. Once the issue is on the table, everyone should be invited to discuss and hash out opinions, ideas and actions. If you’re not invited to the table, create one yourself and invite others. If it affects a community that you don’t identify with but you still want to be a part of the solution, ask a member of that community how you can be an ally.

We’ve heard a lot in the last month or so about issues regarding diversity and inclusion at Iowa State. And rightfully so, because words and actions matter just as much as a lack of words and actions. What an organization or person chooses to do and say — or not do nor say — speaks volumes. Words matter.

As this semester speeds to finals week, let us not grow weary of always trying to improve our beloved Iowa State community. Take the time to engage with groups and people you wouldn’t normally interact with. Not because it is “their” job to inform you, but rather because you are interested in constantly improving Iowa State.

April is Autism Awareness Month. Recent articles in the Daily have provided resources for you to become better informed about the topic of autism. Individuals have spoken out about their perspectives and their opinions. These are the necessary phases for raising awareness and necessary phases for productive discourse on subjects like these.  

Please take the time to review those resources, and move beyond the awareness stage and into action. The actions you take can be personal or communal, but realize that simple changes such as using appropriate language and understanding context can go a long way — but always strive for more. Our Iowa State community is nothing more than the sum of its parts. As students, faculty and staff, residents — as citizens, we are obligated to participate in bettering it. 

We all experience social and cultural issues with varying backgrounds, lived experiences and knowledge. Be patient with newcomers but persistent in your demands. Be welcoming to all but unwavering in your convictions. Be sympathetic to those who don’t understand but fearless in the face of opposition.