Dear members of The Arc community,
Thank you for your continued advocacy during these distressing times. The House Ways and Means budget was just released and we will need everyone to take action with their Representatives. The Arc is working to file six amendments, so stay tuned.
But today, I am here with another important message during this month of celebrating the strength and resilience of the autism community.
As the CDC announces a new prevalence of 1 in 31, this Autism Acceptance Month presents a grave reality. The progress achieved over the last decades in supporting the autism community is under threat.
The dismantling of critical safeguards and care systems endangers the future of individuals with autism and devalues the lives of all with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The essential movement towards acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity – as well as the need for comprehensive support for those with complex and profound autism – must not be reversed. We cannot go backwards.
As experts highlight the increase in awareness of autism and improvements in diagnostic criteria, it is also crucial that we continue the work on promising advancements in understanding the genetic basis of autism and developing effective interventions which are at risk of being undermined by current federal actions.
This month, let’s commit to working together to fuel year-round advocacy for people with autism and their families. Stand with The Arc as we empower, mobilize, and protect through unwavering state and federal advocacy.
With gratitude,
Maura Sullivan, MPA
Chief Executive Officer
