ASAN's public policy initiatives involve advocating for greater support and understanding for adults and children on the autism spectrum. Within the broader context of the disability rights movement, ASAN seeks to bring about more accommodation and acceptance of neurological diversity in our society. We believe that self advocacy is essential to this process and that there must be meaningful involvement of Autistic individuals in making policy at all levels: Nothing About Us Without Us. Every person is worthy of inclusion and respect, whatever his or her support needs may be. We view the Autistic community as one community, encourage self advocacy among all people on the spectrum, and also work with parents and other allies who share our goals. In the interest of ensuring for everyone the rights of communication and self-determination, ASAN works to change public perceptions of autism and to dispel old myths and stereotypes that have led to discrimination and abuse.
As with other minority groups, an inclusive educational system is a vital part of changing social attitudes and creating a culture in which all people are seen as equal participants in society; thus, ASAN seeks to reverse the unfortunate trend toward segregation of Autistic children in the schools, and we are working to create a more accommodating environment on college and university campuses. Autistic children and adults often are targets of abuse and bullying, in the schools and elsewhere, and effective action must be taken to put an end to this mistreatment. Stronger efforts are needed to enforce the equal employment opportunity laws and to make employers aware of their obligation to provide workplace accommodations. More funding is needed for community services and supports, which are vital to enabling people with disabilities to participate in society. Research priorities should focus on areas that have the most potential to improve the daily lives of Autistic people, such as communication and assistive technology, best practices in providing services and supports, and educational methodologies. Health care disparities need to be remedied and beneficial therapies made more widely available; however, the use of scientifically unproven treatments and those that focus on normalization rather than teaching useful skills should be discouraged.
To learn more about the views of ASAN and its supporters on particular topics, follow the links below.
As with other minority groups, an inclusive educational system is a vital part of changing social attitudes and creating a culture in which all people are seen as equal participants in society; thus, ASAN seeks to reverse the unfortunate trend toward segregation of Autistic children in the schools, and we are working to create a more accommodating environment on college and university campuses. Autistic children and adults often are targets of abuse and bullying, in the schools and elsewhere, and effective action must be taken to put an end to this mistreatment. Stronger efforts are needed to enforce the equal employment opportunity laws and to make employers aware of their obligation to provide workplace accommodations. More funding is needed for community services and supports, which are vital to enabling people with disabilities to participate in society. Research priorities should focus on areas that have the most potential to improve the daily lives of Autistic people, such as communication and assistive technology, best practices in providing services and supports, and educational methodologies. Health care disparities need to be remedied and beneficial therapies made more widely available; however, the use of scientifically unproven treatments and those that focus on normalization rather than teaching useful skills should be discouraged.
To learn more about the views of ASAN and its supporters on particular topics, follow the links below.
Subcategories within Public Policy :
Disability Rights and Neurodiversity - Self Advocacy and Representation - The Autistic Community and Allies - Changing Perceptions of Autism and Disability - Family Law and Relationships - Inclusive Education and College/University - Preventing Abuse, Neglect, and Bullying - Employment and Accommodations - Community Services and Supports - Research and Data Collection - Therapies and Health Care 