Welcome to Autistic Advocates United: Our Grassroots Hub!
This is your dedicated online space on MentalHappy, powered by the collaborative efforts of Umbrella ND and Today's Autistic Moment.
Here, we are more than just a support group; we are the heart of our Autistic Advocates United (AAU) grassroots movement – a space for Autistic individuals and committed allies to connect, strategize, and actively work together to "Change the Rules" for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Inspired by the powerful principle of "Nothing About Us Without Us," this group serves as our central organizing point to:
- Connect and Build Community: Find solidarity and shared understanding with fellow Autistic individuals and allies who are passionate about Autistic rights and autonomy.
- Strategize and Plan Advocacy: Collaborate on grassroots initiatives at local, regional, and national levels. This includes brainstorming advocacy strategies, coordinating actions, and identifying opportunities for impact.
- Share Information and Resources: Access and contribute to a growing pool of resources related to Autistic rights, self-advocacy, and understanding the Autistic experience.
- Amplify Autistic Voices: Utilize this space to share our perspectives, experiences, and insights, ensuring Autistic individuals are at the center of all discussions and decisions that concern us.
- Develop and Support Local Chapters/Initiatives: Connect with others in your area to form local advocacy groups and work on community-specific projects.
- Organize and Participate in Action: Coordinate participation in events, campaigns, and initiatives aimed at raising awareness, challenging misinformation, and advocating for systemic change.
- Foster Unity and Solidarity: Strengthen the bonds between Autistics and allies, building a powerful and unified front against ableism and for the rights of all neurodivergent individuals and disability communities.
- Work Towards Systemic Change: Collaboratively identify policy changes and advocate for increased investment in Autistic-created and led research and resources that prioritize understanding, acceptance, and comprehensive support across the lifespan.
This platform is where our shared commitment to Our Voice, Our Future: A United Stand for Autistic Autonomy translates into tangible action. We will leverage this space to empower Autistic individuals and their allies to engage in effective grassroots advocacy, ensuring our voices are heard and our rights are upheld.
Join us to become an active part of Autistic Advocates United. Together, we will harness our collective power to reshape societal understanding, challenge harmful norms, and build a future where Autistic autonomy and well-being are not just aspirations, but fundamental realities. Let's work together to GET TO Change the Rules!