About Autistics Speaking Day

DESCRIPTION:

Autistics Speaking Day, initiated by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), is an annual event held on November 1st to empower individuals with autism to share their experiences, challenges, and perspectives. This day is part of a broader movement to promote neurodiversity and the rights of autistic individuals.

Founded in 2010 as a response to a well-meaning but misguided charity event that encouraged silence to simulate the communication difficulties faced by autistic people, Autistics Speaking Day seeks to do the opposite. It encourages those on the autism spectrum to speak out through social media, blogs, art, or public speaking.

ASAN, a grassroots advocacy organization run by and for autistic people, plays a pivotal role in organizing and promoting Autistics Speaking Day. The event serves as a platform for autistic individuals to share their stories, advocate for their rights, and challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about autism.

The day is marked by various activities, including online campaigns where autistic individuals share their experiences and express themselves creatively. These can be blog posts, videos, artwork, and more, all aimed at providing insight into the autistic experience.

Autistics Speaking Day also serves as an educational opportunity for the broader public. By listening to and amplifying the voices of autistic individuals, people can gain a better understanding of what it means to be autistic and the diverse ways autism can manifest. This understanding is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.

The event underscores the importance of self-advocacy and the empowerment of autistic individuals. It challenges the narrative often portrayed in media and by some organizations that tend to speak about or for autistic people rather than letting them represent themselves.