Wednesday evening saw the Rock painted with a puzzle piece, the universal symbol of autism activism, to advertise the Northwestern branch of the national organization Autism Speaks.
The group, which was founded on campus last year, aims to raise awareness for autism research and education, as well as reduce common misconceptions about the disorder. Their goals include raising funds for autism research and volunteering for organizations that help children with autism and other disabilities.
"We think it's important to educate people about autism because the earlier you can detect it in children, the earlier you can treat it," said Co-President Jonathan Slack, a Weinberg Sophomore, who guarded the Rock Tuesday night. "If kids don't build correct skills, it can inhibit their ability to assimilate into society."