This month, I have asked Autism Advocate and Author Thomas McKean to write about his perspective on Autism Acceptance Month. I do this because it is important to recognize that parents of those with Autism (like me) can never know what it is like to be Autistic. We are ALLIES, and we need to make sure we are always listening to the perspectives and experiences of those with an ASD diagnosis. I have learned a huge amount from Thomas over the past 25 years, and he has helped me to be a better Autism parent.


With gratitude,

Kathi J. Machle, President | info@autismohio.org

Happy Autism Acceptance Month!

It used to be, back in the day, Autism Awareness Month. I, as a member of the Autism Society of America Board along with Temple Grandin, was a part of putting all of that together, we chose April because it starts with A, like Autism. We also considered August, we felt Springtime would be better for events, conferences, and fundraisers, and overall raising awareness.


Since that time, there has been a push to change Awareness Month to Acceptance Month, which I was against in the beginning. I felt (and I still feel) that acceptance will come with awareness. I understand the need for acceptance, but I think acceptance needs to come on its own. We can’t force people into acceptance, the acceptance won’t be genuine. I’d rather wait for the acceptance and have the acceptance be real than have people fake acceptance for an Acceptance Month.


But what one feels about Autism Acceptance Month changes depending on perspective. If we are looking at Autism acceptance in the sense of accepting Autistic individuals, then yes - that is something we want. We want everyone with Autism to be accepted. We want them to be welcome and invited into our society. However, if we look at Autism acceptance in the sense of the condition of Autism itself, that’s another story. Some would have us accept it just as it is. However, we need to provide therapies, interventions, and support for a higher quality of life.


When we were putting this all together, what we had in mind was a month that was about advocacy. We wanted to see conferences and conventions, fundraisers and events, and even meetings with legislators.


We need to bring attention not just to acceptance of the lower support needs, but to the problems of the more severe and their families, and finding support and solutions that work for them.


This year, President Biden issued a proclamation supporting World Autism Acceptance Day. He stated, “I call upon all Americans to learn more about Autism to improve early diagnosis, to learn more about the experiences of Autistic people from Autistic people, and to build more welcoming and inclusive communities to support people with Autism.”


Yes, we need to learn more about Autism from Autistic people. Also from parents, family members, friends, doctors, researchers, educators, and therapists. The Autism community is vast, indeed. All of them (and more) have something to teach us.


Autism Acceptance Month is nearly over, but it’s not too late to start advocating.


-Thomas A. McKean

Learn more about Thomas and Autism @thomasamckean.com

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We're delighted to unveil AutismOhio.org, a user-friendly resource hub accessible to all Ohioans. This redesigned platform ensures easier updates and maintenance and amplifies our mission. Explore ASO's programs, advocacy initiatives, and expanding resource directory, catering to individuals and families impacted by Autism statewide. Stay informed with our news blog, social media links, and, soon, a comprehensive events calendar. Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or stay updated, our site offers a seamless experience. Share your thoughts with us at info@autismohio.org. Join us in fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for Autism in Ohio! 

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AUTISM SOCIETY NEAR ME

Summer Smiles: Exciting Adventures for Kids


Now is the time to plan summer activities for your loved ones. Summer programs offer invaluable opportunities for children to thrive and grow - this is an extra special opportunity for children with Autism.


Beyond fostering independence and confidence, camps, outings, and other endeavors provide a supportive environment for kids to engage in activities, exercise, and enjoy social interaction. Camps build friendships and relationships and empower children with special needs to explore, learn, and flourish in a nurturing community.


Here are a few Autism Society affiliates are hosting: 

  • Autism Society Northwest Ohio hosts Green Options for Autism, a summer day camp for youth 12 - 17 years old, on June 17 - 21 in Toledo.
  • Autism Society of Greater Cleveland sponsors S.T.A.R. Summer Camp in Independence for both those with disabilities and their neurotypical peers.
  • Autism Society of Mahoning Valley hosts two weeks of Camp FRIEND for high-needs individuals on July 17 and August 14.


In addition to camps, the local affiliates organize loads of summer fun, including pool parties, amusement park trips, and more! Others also host sensory break areas at your favorite community festivals. Check out the affiliate website near you for more information.

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Make a Difference with Third-Party Fundraising

Looking for a fun and impactful way to support those with Autism in your community or throughout the state? Consider hosting a third-party fundraising event! Whether you're an individual, business, or organization, there's something for everyone to get involved in. These events raise vital funds, spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and can significantly impact families living with Autism. Let's make a difference together!

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NEWS FROM THE STATEHOUSE

Ohio proposes bill to eliminate sub-minimum wage

There are renewed efforts at the Ohio Statehouse to ensure Ohioans with developmental disabilities earn a fair wage.  House Bill 427, sponsored by Representative Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Representative Scott Lipps (R-Franklin), seeks to eliminate the sub-minimum wage. Employers who apply and receive a Special Wage Certificate can pay employees with developmental disabilities around $4 an hour, sometimes less. HB 427 would phase it out five years after passage, requiring Ohioans with disabilities to be paid at least a minimum wage of $10.45 per hour.


Advocates emphasize the tangible impact of fair wages. Transitioning from sub-minimum to minimum wage enables individuals to save and spend for previously unattainable experiences, like visiting a spa or buying football tickets. For families, the heart of the conversation is ensuring their children feel recognized, respected, and valued in Ohio.


Why ASO supports it: We believe the proposed bill represents a pivotal step towards economic equity and social inclusion for individuals with disabilities across the state. The bill has yet to have its first hearing and has not yet been assigned to a committee. Please consider contacting your State representative to express your support.

NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

Highlights from the Disability Policy Seminar

In early April, over 750 advocates convened in Washington, D.C., for the annual Disability Policy Seminar, a vital federal legislative conference co-sponsored by leading disability advocacy organizations, including the Autism Society of America. Panels featuring speakers from Autism Society affiliates addressed crucial topics like education, employment, and criminal legal issues. Armed with insights from these sessions, advocates took to Capitol Hill to educate their members of Congress, culminating in a breakfast rally before scheduled meetings. For those unable to attend, fact sheets from the seminar serve as valuable talking points for future engagements with legislators. ASA's Kim Musheno and Delancy Allred can arrange in-person or virtual meetings with your representatives to support your advocacy efforts. 


Take action! Make Your Voice Heard! Spread the Word! Show Your Support!

Congress must reauthorize the Autism CARES Act and send it to President Biden before it expires on Sept. 30. ASA urges all of us to take action during April, Autism Acceptance Month, to reach out to our legislators. Learn more about how you can help here.


Want more information on national issues? Check out the current Capitol Connection. 

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