We all define ourselves by certain names. Mom, dad, brother, sister, husband, wife, friend, co-worker. The list goes on and on. For me it is wife, mother, and nana. But I also want to call myself a change -maker.

Change -makers are the individuals and groups who do not accept the status quo. These are the people who dedicate their lives to making a difference in their community and the world at large. The impact that change-makers have drives the progress that advances their cause. And I strive to be a change-maker.

I was recently asked to participate in an exercise where you develop a vision statement. The end goal was a few words to describe what your vision looks like for those on the spectrum who want to be gainfully employed. It was a question-led process that helped you narrow down your thoughts. At the end of this process you should be able to pull together a vision of what the world looks like 10 years from now for adults on the spectrum seeking employment.

If you have been following my blog, I’m sure you realize by now that getting my thoughts down to a few words is not easy for me! So you, poor reader, must now endure my ramblings.

This vision statement led me down the path of thinking about racial and gender equality. Both racial and gender equality have been marked by struggles for recognition, rights, and opportunities for these marginalized groups. Discrimination, prejudice, and inequality have plagued both movements, but over time, significant progress has been made through legislative changes, advocacy and activism.

Individuals with autism also fall into a marginalized group. They face stigmatization and discrimination. They have been excluded from employment opportunities, misunderstood, and subjected to harmful stereotypes. Very little progress has been made for autistic individuals seeking employment. The sad statistics state more than 80% of autistic adults are either underemployed or unemployed.

However, just as gender and racial equality movements have made strides towards greater inclusion and representation, efforts are being made to promote autism equality in the workplace. Autism Insights Foundation is one of those groups. We are a nonprofit committed to raising awareness about the strengths and capabilities of individuals with autism, advocating for accommodations and support services, and challenging biases and misconceptions. Autism Insights Foundation will continue our mission of increasing employment opportunities for neurodiverse individuals by providing corporate training and funding impactful scientific research to advance the cause. We welcome all change-makers to join us!

And, if you read this far and are wondering what the vision statement is, here you go…

Let’s focus on the ability in disability.

Until next time.