Why is autism speaks controversy

Wagner, the national autism coordinator, agrees there needs to be more research on autism across the lifespan and said the government is trying to attract and fund more research in this area. Just like parents everywhere, Acevedo wants the best for her kids. But after Omar and Jorge finish high school and special education services end, she wonders — and worries — about what the future holds. Shattuck says helping autistic adults or those with disabilities ultimately helps everyone.

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Politics Covid U. News World Opinion Business. Share this —. Follow NBC News. There is also a lack of representation of people with autism on the board of directors. Prior to , there were zero members on the board who had autism. Singerman wrote in an email to The Miami Student that she was aware of the controversy surrounding the organization. This past fall, however, it hosted an art sale with proceeds benefiting Autism Speaks.

We are happy to be a part of that movement. How will people with autism assume a leadership role in guiding the development of tools and therapies to help our community? We have a number of good organizations fighting for rights, but none had anywhere close to the resources of Autism Speaks, especially in science.

It's another autism organization begun by a well-heeled philanthropist with an autistic family member, but the focus of both the organization's funding and the science communicators on the site is solidly scientific.

What appears to be lacking is autistic representation and autistic voice, something Autism Speaks no longer has, either. But at least SFARI is getting it right on the science and doing it without roundly offending autistic people in the process. This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here. More From Forbes. Jul 31, , am EDT. Jul 24, , pm EDT. Jul 10, , am EDT. Jul 9, , am EDT. Set Your Location.

For the Record. We advocate with and for the collective autism community Autistic people are directly involved in the work and mission of Autism Speaks every day: as employees, board members, volunteers and grant reviewers. How fundraising and awareness make an impact By raising funds and awareness, Autism Speaks is committed to promoting solutions, inclusion and opportunities for everyone impacted by autism. How Autism Speaks helps people with autism Research confirms that each person on the autism spectrum is unique, and we aim to address diverse needs.

Many learn to overcome their challenges by building on strengths or modifying their environment. About 40 percent have average to above average intellectual abilities. Autism is often accompanied by serious medical conditions. About one-third of people with autism are nonverbal or have limited verbal communication, but some learn to communicate by other means.

Approximately 50 percent of children with autism attempt to wander or bolt from a safety, and for a significant number of people this tendency continues into adulthood. Here are some of the other ways Autism Speaks is working to help people on the spectrum every day: Increasing global understanding and acceptance , through education, awareness and efforts to share stories of autistic people across the spectrum and throughout the life span in their own words.

Being a catalyst for life-enhancing research breakthroughs , by investing in science that will allow more personalized treatments and therapies for those on the spectrum. Increasing early childhood screening and timely intervention, with the launch of a new public service campaign aiming to lower the age of diagnosis to help children with autism reach their fullest potential.

Improving the transition to adulthood for the 50, autistic Americans who age out of school-based supports each year, by promoting resources for all.