Long Islanders participated in the 10th annual Walk for Autism at Jones Beach Sunday.

Around 25,000 people took part in the Autism Speaks walk in support of their autistic children and loved ones. Some families walked in hopes of sending a message to lawmakers about how autistic children should be treated.

?The Long Island walk is the largest of 80 walks that Autism Speaks has around the country raising money for research, awareness, advocacy and family services that get funded right here on Long Island,? Mark Roithmayr, of Autism Speaks, says.One in 150 children are diagnosed with autism in the U.S. and experts say that number is growing.