INSIGHTS: Autism Empowerment Prioritizes Connection & Community, Not Controversy
By Lindsay Wagner, Director of Neurodiversity & Community Inclusion and Michael John Carley, self-advocate and Neurodiversity & Leadership Advisor
The news has been riddled with misinformation about autism in recent months, prompting League School for Autism to carryover Autism Empowerment Month as an opportunity to support our community to “unlearn the nonsense”, as self-advocate and League Neurodiversity and Leadership Advisor, Michael John Carley, describes it.
Prominent messaging from federal organizations has consistently misrepresented the prevalence of Autism, has spread disinformation about its causes, has proposed harmful policies, and has used dehumanizing language that continues to do damage to individuals with Autism and their families. This negative rhetoric takes a toll on the mental health of these individuals and their allies, who have worked tirelessly to gain equitable access to public spaces, education, healthcare, and services over the past 60 years. At the heart of League School’s mission is the fact that two families with Autistic children knew, even in 1966, that their children meant something in this world and deserved to learn.
“No, it doesn’t take much brainpower to identify the blatant farce of saying that Tylenol causes Autism, or that “These kids who will never pay taxes. They’ll never hold a job. They’ll never play baseball. They’ll never write a poem. They’ll never go out on a date.” But we must add the equally true observation that these ideas can feel intentionally mean-spirited,” Carley shares.
Confusion thrives in spaces of uncertainty, making it even more difficult for worried individuals and their caregivers to find reliable information and meaningful supports. Outdated ideas and discredited research should not overshadow the struggles and hopes our community carries every day. Our community is diverse in its support needs, but even though life experiences vary, they are all overwhelmingly valid. The value of the individuals should not be diminished, regardless of what is being stated in public forums.
Michael John Carley provides concrete advice for families, in particular, as we navigate the frenzy of disheartening statements. “While few in the Autism community will change the world, we can all at least recognize that if we don’t feel good about ourselves, then our chances of leading happy lives are greatly diminished. Autistics need to feel good about being autistic. Even if you’ve given up on hope, they can’t. If you dare say you care about them, then it’s your responsibility to help them unlearn the damage of the last year. Non-speakers are especially at risk. Most can read about what’s written about them, or hear what’s being said about them.”
When considering the full range of human factors that contribute to identity – including gender, race, neurological makeup, socioeconomic status, etc. – Carley identifies Quality of Supports as a key priority. “WHOEVER you are, if you’re raised to feel good about yourself, then you’ve got a shot. If not? Then I don’t like your chances at a happy life.” Our families, educators, and allies are the very supports Carley is referring to. How we respond to and reshape negative messaging can have a significant impact on the Autistic children we know and love. We all have work to do in “unlearning,” but we are unified in our belief that every Autistic person has worth, deserves access to supports that meet their needs, and should have the opportunity to live a meaningful, connected life. Throughout Autism Empowerment Month, we have thoughtfully approached each day focused on our goal to do everything we can to build a future where each child thrives, and we remain committed to carrying this work forward, no matter the societal landscape.
