I just wrote a letter which is being sent to President-Elect Obama regarding autism advocacy and Autism Speaks, Inc. I am publishing this letter in the open as I feel its important for others with Autism and those that really care to become involved as well.
Mr President Elect,
I am writing to you regarding a condition I have known as Aspergers Syndrome, a part of the Autism Spectrum. I wanted to let you know even though I disagreed with a lot of your stances on issues I voted for you because of one important thing – your agenda appears to be one of empowering disables which as someone who has a disability is a very important thing to me and I wanted to thank you for that.
I am also writing to let you know that there is an organization out there that’s widely known that claims to advocate for Autistic People in Government – there name is Autism Speaks. I want to let you know that there are many, many people autistic individuals such as myself who do not agree with or support Autism Speaks. There are currently 1705 signatures of people on a petition who disagree with how this organization treats and advocates for Autistic People. Autism Speaks has advocated against and even threatened autistic individuals for speaking out against them on a repeated basis – myself being one of them.
I’m not going to say don’t listen to Autism Speaks as I believe it’s the job of the President to listen to and serve the people – and Autism Speaks is just as American as you or me, however I am going to say that when developing policies of those with disabilities please take into account what those with the disability itself have to say. I would even go as far as asking you to have people with disabilities advise you on new laws and policies regarding people with disabilities.
I feel strongly that people with disabilities are the best advocates for themselves, as we know what our struggles are what the issues are and what assistance and changes are needed. I ask that you please consider giving people with disabilities a voice in help shaping these changes.
Thanks,
Zachary LassiterOnline Petition: http://www.autism-hub.co.uk/autism-speaks-dont-speak-for-me/index.php
I encourage other Americans with disabilities to write and call the people you have elected into office – they serve you.
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Thank you for posting this powerful letter—-I’d like much to know what specific laws and policies you’d like to see in a new administration, in areas such as employment, for instance? I’m especially hoping that they’ll be more than “adequate” representation of autistic adults on any committees or organizations. Time for a change, indeed.
Thanks for writing this letter. I think it’ll be very helpful indeed.