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E-Speaks eNewsletter

Since July 1990, when the American Disability Act (ADA) was signed into law to protect the rights of people with disabilities, people across the country have come together every year to celebrate Disability Pride Month. At Autism Speaks, we proudly join in to celebrate the unique differences of people across the spectrum.  

In this edition of E-Speaks, we highlight the beauty of diversity by sharing the stories of our community members as they discuss what Disability Pride Month means to them and reflect on how their disabilities allow them to see the world through a unique lens.

Discover how one autistic author learned to love himself, read how an autism diagnosis helped one parent embrace their family’s diversity, and meet an Autism Speaks team member who found his calling by helping the autism community. Download our free Self-Empowerment Roadmap for strategies on how to build confidence and better advocate for yourself. 

In our own words: What Disability Pride Month means to me 

Michael G., 40, Lauryn G., 7, and her mom, Veronica and Amanda R., 24, share personal stories about how autism has touched their lives, discuss why recognizing Disability Pride Month is so important and stress the importance of advocating for yourself and those you care about.   

Welcome to the family!

When Maddy D. was diagnosed with autism in their 30s, the diagnosis opened the doors to a deeper understanding of themselves and their neurodiverse family. As a non-binary parent of five kids, four of whom are autistic, Maddy has become a dedicated autism advocate with a passion for music and an appreciation for autism’s unique gifts. In this profile, they share their perspective on their autism diagnosis, the joys of being autistic, and the importance of greater understanding and accommodation.

An autistic author shares his journey to self-love 

Sam Farmer has been on a long and winding road to self-acceptance, but learning to love himself  has been one of his greatest accomplishments. In this excerpt from his book, he shares the lessons that helped him develop the inner strength to find peace and self-love. 

Adulting on the Spectrum: Finding my calling helping the autism community 

In this episode of Adulting on the Spectrum, hosts Andrew Komarow and Eileen Lamb speak with Tony Hernandez. Tony is a bilingual autistic author, writer, motivational speaker, podcaster and advocate who was born and raised in Puerto Rico and now works with Autism Speaks as part of the Autism Response Team. In this podcast, he explains how he overcame bullying and other challenges and found his calling helping other autistic people and their families. 

Build skills and confidence through self-advocacy 

Many autistic adults face challenges in their everyday lives, but learning to advocate for yourself can help you accept your unique differences and live your life with confidence. Our Self-Empowerment Roadmap for Autistic Adults will teach you how to identify barriers and find the supports you need  for success. 

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