An article by Paula C. Durbin-Westby. When a person has a disability that person is still a person. That person with a disability has a body, and a mind. That person with a disability has needs, concerns, desires, a personal history, a context of family, friends, and community relations. A person who has a disability has all the legal and civil rights of personhood (or should).
PBS NewsHour’s program about autism dismisses adults’ needs: In addressing why the Autistic community was not invited to participate, Robert MacNeil claimed that issues facing Autistic adults were not “an urgent issue” and not important enough to merit coverage. ASAN has issued a press release condemning his ignorant statements.
Cafe Press responds to concerns: Cafe Press has agreed to allow shop owners who sell autism-related products to opt out of the April 2011 fundraiser, has created a survey asking where funds should be donated, and has informed us that it will provide a survey next year.
Concerns about Upcoming PBS NewsHour Program: ASAN has released a statement expressing concern about next week’s PBS NewsHour six-part special about the autism spectrum.
Cafe Press and Autism Speaks: ASAN has compiled a fact sheet on Cafe Press’ controversial decision to donate 10% of all sales of autism-related products to Autism Speaks, without giving its vendors the choice to opt out.
Joint Letter to CDC: With the support of allied disability advocacy and professional organizations, ASAN submitted a joint letter to the CDC opposing the wandering code proposal.
ASAN staffer Paula C. Durbin-Westby and ASAN Board Member Melanie Yergeau gave an interview in which they explained why it’s important to start off April with an acceptance message. Understanding and acceptance are vital to bringing about a world in which Autistic citizens are equal members of society.
Sharing Perspectives: The Central Ohio/Ohio State University ASAN Chapter will host a reading of poetry, prose, and dramatic writing on Saturday, April 2, 2011.
