as shared by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network
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| Here we are again. It's April, and in the coming weeks, Autistic people and our allies will face a long list of non-autistic experts and spokespeople talking about us, without us. For many of us, April is a time when the public is "aware" of autism but chooses to ignore Autistic people We're often asked by non-autistic friends and allies what they can do to support the Autistic community in the month of April and beyond. We know that many of you are looking for ways to be a part of the solution. That's why this month, we'd like to ask you to join us in taking the pledge for Autistic inclusion. It's a simple message: "I pledge to only attend, speak at or otherwise participate in autism panels, conferences and events that meaningfully involve Autistic people. I choose not to give my business or my time to settings that fail to include Autistic voices in conversations about autism." Conversations on autism should include Autistic people - it's as simple as that. That should not be a difficult standard to meet, but for too many conferences, panels and events in the autism community, the most important stakeholders - Autistic people ourselves - are excluded. We think it's time to change that - and your voice will help make that possible. Will you join us in signing the pledge and taking a stand to support Autistic voices? What you do today matters in building a truly inclusive community for all of us. We hope you'll join us in standing up for including autistic people in our national conversation on autism. Once you do, tell your friends on social media using the hashtag #AcceptanceIs and we'll signal boost you to help get the message out. Thank you for your support in helping turn April into Autism Acceptance Month. Autistic people deserve more than just awareness - we deserve respect, inclusion and acceptance. You can help make that happen. As always, Nothing About Us, Without Us! Sincerely, Ari Ne'eman President Autistic Self Advocacy Network |
Autistic Self Advocacy Network: PO Box 66122 | Washington, DC 20035
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