Autism Speaks

The tragic drowning of a local child with autism reinforces the importance of water safety for the autistic community in Houston. Autism Speaks’ Lindsay Naeder shares with @KRPC Houston that even as summer ends, the dangers of wandering remain a major concern across the nation, and resources that autism families can turn to to keep their children safe, including swim lessons and support from Autism Speaks’ Autism Response Team. Watch the interview: https://lnkd.in/gPEdY7hD

Over 60% of children and young adults with autism experiencing bullying, and addressing this issue and highlighting the importance of building friendships for the autistic community is more critical than ever. To describe their strategies and experiences with bullying at school, our Champions of Change, Logan Slaughter and Victoria Handy were interviewed by Jennifer Jay Palumbo in Forbes “Growing up with autism, I sometimes struggled to feel included by other kids at my school. My autism made it difficult for me to stay focused in class or connect with the other students my age. A lot of the time, I was being left out of things, sometimes without my peers even realizing that they were doing it,” Logan shared. "I've found that accepting your flaws and being yourself is important. Throughout my life, I've found that haters will have their stereotypes, but this is not your problem. It's their problem. People are always going to have something that doesn't fit into their views and expectations about normalcy," Victoria added. https://okt.to/ZAKHlk

Politics aside, the mocking of anyone with a disability is never acceptable. Those making fun of Gus Walz, and his display of vulnerability and love from last night, are not only narrow minded but significantly uneducated about the real life experiences of millions of Americans living with disabilities. Gus’ expression of pure joy and admiration at last night’s event should be a reminder to everyone to lead with kindness and compassion. We feel sorry for those who didn’t see it that way. At Autism Speaks, we challenge those focused on spreading hateful rhetoric to instead learn more about the needs of those on the spectrum. Rather than bullying others, those commenting negatively about this young man should consider fighting for the rights of others, like Gus, who will lose access to critical supports and services if the Autism CARES Act is not reauthorized this September. In the meantime, we will continue to focus our time and attention there - doing work to help and serve others instead of finding ways to tear others down. We hope you’ll join us.

Did you know that only one in five people with disabilities are employed? Our very own Arianna E. penned an article in Training Magazine where she shared how employers can decrease the employment gap by building and promoting a more inclusive environment for neurodiverse individuals. To learn more about how Autism Speaks is educating workplaces, job seekers, and community stakeholders on promoting diversity in the workplace, check out our Workplace Inclusion Now program! “The autistic community is a notable example of a group lacking representation in the workforce. From attention to detail to problem-solving skills, individuals with autism possess a wide range of skills and talents that can be invaluable in the workplace.” https://okt.to/3ZRe2W

"At the end of last summer, our twins – who both have autism – had a terrible time switching back to early wake-up and long school days." Here are some tips to make transition easier. https://okt.to/HdM2tT

Sharing some strategies to help reduce anxiety in autistic adults: https://okt.to/qKflCJ

Mark your calendars! Join us on 8/28 from 4-5:15 p.m. ET for a special Family ECHO: Autism webinar on catatonia in autism. Learn how to identify symptoms and plan treatment options for autistic children. Family ECHO: Autism empowers parents and caregivers with tools and support from national experts. Don't miss this chance to gain valuable insights and connect with a community of families. Register now! https://okt.to/4fgGlZ

Disability Scoop recently highlighted the looming deadline to pass the Autism CARES Act. Our very own Keith Wargo was quoted on impact of this Act and the new enhancements we’re hoping to see Congress align on before the September 30th deadline. Please help us renew the Autism CARES Act by asking your US Representative to vote in support. “The Autism CARES Act is the most important bill when it comes to the federal investment in autism research, training and data efforts… The enhancements included in the bill will help to further advance progress in addressing the gaps in access to health care, services and supports that too many autistic people face.” https://okt.to/AQi1wm

"The primary motivation to advocate for the autism community in my country was my son." https://okt.to/R9ZLYf

Earlier this year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration proposed a move to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug. The proposal signals a significant shift in how the federal government views the substance and could have major implications for the autism and autistic communities. https://okt.to/Eavoy4