For more than 36 years, Susan Senator has been a passionate advocate for autism and disability rights, inspired by her oldest son, Nat, who has profound autism. A journalist and author, she has written four books on autism and shared her expertise through keynotes and workshops nationwide.
She also served six years on her local School Committee, focusing on special education and working with lawmakers to advance disability issues. Her writing on autism has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, TIME, and Psychology Today.
Today, Susan Senator continues to advocate for people with profound autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Most recently, she joined The Arc of Massachusetts CEO Maura Sullivan in calling for changes to the healthcare workplace violence bill, highlighting the importance of protecting healthcare workers while ensuring that people with profound autism are not criminalized for disability-related behavior.
In their recent WBUR editorial, they share their personal experiences as mothers and urge lawmakers to prioritize de-escalation, training, and safeguards in healthcare settings for people with disabilities. Read the WBUR article: https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2026/09/21/massachusetts-healthcare-worker-protection-bill-susan-senator-maura-sullivan
Learn more and take action: The Arc of Massachusetts Action Alert
Do you know a stellar advocate who should be included in a future spotlight series? Please contact Emilia at eniyangoda@arcmass.org!
The Arc’s Monthly Advocacy Spotlight Series will highlight and recognize our wonderful self-advocates, family members, organizations, and experts who work tirelessly on issues alongside The Arc.
