No person should be made to feel inferior. Made to feel their life isn’t meaningful. Told they are incapable of being a contributing, valued member of our society. Recent national attention on the cause and characterization of autism has been highly concerning to all of us at the Autism Alliance of Michigan.
Referring to autism as an “epidemic” or “disease” is not only medically inaccurate, but also harmful.
This language perpetuates stigma, implies that somehow autism is “contagious” and is spreading wildly out of control, without any understanding of why. It undermines critical research, funding and policies especially for those with the most complex needs.
It detracts from the strengths, potential, and dignity of individuals on the autism spectrum that you and I both honor and value.
With your past support, Autism Alliance of Michigan has worked relentlessly to dispel harmful stereotypes that isolate and deprive Michigan’s autism community of their inherent rights.
In the face of economically challenging and uncertain times, we need your support more than ever. I invite you to lock arms with us and unite for Autism. Join thousands of fellow Michiganders, from each corner of the state, as we proudly stand with and for our autism community.
Our goal is to raise $31,000 this summer in honor of the 1 in 31 people diagnosed with autism in Michigan.
Will you lock arms with us and unite for autism?
Together, we stand proudly with the autism community—families, researchers, clinicians, and self-advocates—in advocating for science-based approaches, inclusive dialogue, and respectful representation.
Thank you for your continued advocacy & support. Onward!