Autism Justice: Supporting Autistic People’s Self-Determination

What’s wrong with ‘Autism Awareness’?: There are many issues with ‘Autism Awareness’ including that it is used to promote the idea that autism is a disease or disorder that needs to be stamped out, rather than a different way of being in a world that hasn’t been designed with autistic people in mind. Tune in to learn more!

Tuesday, April 27th, 2021, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT

Click here for registration link and info!

Autism Speaks is a multi-million dollar organization that many Autistic and disability activists have long identified as further harm, stigma, paternalism, and misconceptions about Autism. Namely, that Autistic people (especially Autistic children) are a burden and that Autism that Autism is a terrible disease that must be cured. Autism $peaks promotes April as “Autism Awareness Month.” So-called “autism awareness” is used to promote the idea that autism is a problem or a defect, rather than 1 of the many natural ways people exist in the world. Autistic people are experts in our own right. We do not need parents or non-Autistic “experts” to speak for us. To counter this harmful messaging from Autism $peaks, join 2 Autistic community members and advocates to learn about supporting the self-determination and advocacy of Autistic people, not just in April but year-round! We can best support Autistic people by listening to them and respecting their right to autonomy and self-determination.

There is a pay what-you-can sliding scale. All donations go to the Fund for Community Reparations for Autistic People of Color’s Interdepence, Survival, and Empowerment. If you want to support Autistic people, this is a great resource to donate to, rather than Autism $peaks. No one turned away for lack of funds!