The Negative Uses Of Autism Speaks

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“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism,” Dr. Stephen Shore. I believe this is a powerful quote that truly defines autism and those who have to experience it every day. People who have autism are often stigmatized that they are not like everyone else. This negative image can be blamed on how TV and media represent those with this disorder, according to Douwe. This idea first begs the question, what is normal? In today’s society, people are trying to be like everyone else if this means wearing the same clothes or acting the same as everyone else just to avoid attention. Well, autistic people are not able to hide behind this false curtain. What disadvantages they have is not something they can change, but rather …show more content…

Autism Speaks is a non-profit organization that works to help people and their families who have Autism. I picked this organization because I truly believe that they are helping to get rid of the stigma that those who have autism are not like everyone else, therefore they should be treated differently. Along the way, they are also helping those who can’t always afford doctors and medicine. Autism Speaks is more than just a voice for the individuals and their families. They also have the goal of raising funds for the families and for research concerning autism. All their values are outlined in their mission statement which is: “Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research” (Autism Speaks).

Autism Speaks was first created in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright. They started this organization after their grandchildren were diagnosed with Autism. The idea of Autism Speaks was built upon the structure of three other organizations that have similar standards and beliefs of Autism Speaks. These organizations were Autism Coalition for Research and Education (ACRE), National Alliance for Autism …show more content…

It started as a small organization where the two founders were responsible for making the decisions. Today, Autism Speaks has a range of ways to get involved. If someone just wants to donate they are able to do it through their website. If someone wants to be part of the organization as a board member, there is a wide range of requirements that the person must complete. These requirements include attending their quarterly board meetings, attending the Chicago’s Walk Now for Autism Speaks and they must raise a minimum of $500 (Autism Speaks). The involvement does not just end there; people can get involved in their local chapters of Autism Speaks. After some quick research, I was able to find out that Pennsylvania’s chapter headquarters is located in Harrisburg. The majority of their membership includes people who either have autism or know someone who has

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