Category Archives: Autism
Fantasy Draft Pick
As we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, let’s remember that autism doesn’t end with childhood. I can only hope to find appropriate support for my kids in the future. I may not have a draft pick on the way, but I’m hopeful for the right team to meet my children with their needs well into adulthood.
Year One on the Spectrum: Reflections from a Late-Diagnosed Autistic
I would have probably been one of those people that would be surprised to hear someone say they found out they were on the autism spectrum in their 30s, but then just after turning 34, I got the “news” that I too am on this wide and usually misunderstood spectrum of neurodivergence, and I’d slipped through the cracks the entire time.
The Wallet Card Project Update 2024
Whether you’re a caregiver, teacher, community organization, or part of law enforcement, visit our newly updated Wallet Card Project page for more information on how to access these resources and apply for a wallet card. Explore the updates today!
Can’t I Just Plug Autism into my GPS?
Along with “just love them,” I’ve discovered a few other self-guiding principles. I’ve learned the importance of not exhausting oneself. It’s tempting to run yourself ragged, getting your children to therapy after therapy, convincing yourself that every therapy is “crucial” or driving a great distance to find the “perfect” school. “Perfect” doesn’t exist and every therapy is not “crucial.” I’ve learned that while seeking good therapies and good schools is desirable, it is more important to focus on peace within the family, to give my children a safe home base where they can comfortably be themselves.
Chasing Autism Acceptance
I have a dream where I move my with my children and my husband to an island. The world is tiny and easy. I am always with my five favorite people with no societal judgement. Then, I realize that humans crave connection with other humans. I crave connection. My husband craves connection. My children crave connection. It would be unfair to limit my kids’ connection, because humans are hard-wired to enjoy the company of other humans. We just have to figure out novels ways to get that connection.
Will Arnaldo Rios-Soto see Justice, or does Justice see Disability as Dangerous?
As a disability advocate, and as Arnaldo Rios-Soto’s lawyer, the trial of Officer Aledda is a watershed moment. Will Arnaldo be deemed to be inherently dangerous because he is different? Will there be a stereotype that because Arnaldo lives with a developmental disability, the fact that he was targeted was justified? I hope not.
Florida’s Not So Happy Anniversary Present To the Americans with Disabilities Act
On the same month as the 27th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a Florida law came into effect that shields businesses from liability in ADA lawsuits. Section 553.5141, Florida Statutes, permits certification of a public accommodation as compliant with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act if an expert designs a… Read More »
4-F – Disabled and Unfit for Military Service
Can you be drafted in the military if you have a disability?
What constitutes a disability that would make you ineligible to be drafted?
Litigation: Is Your Child A Runner?
Some children with autism, developmental or intellectual disabilities may wander off without any comprehension of possible danger. This might include running off from adults at school or in the community, leaving the classroom without permission, or leaving the house when the family is not looking. While most children are drawn to water, many autistic… Read More »
Summer Fun and Discrimination against Kids (with or without disabilities)!
Happy Summertime! The Summer should be a time where all kids, kids with disabilities and kids without disabilities, should be able to have fun. Discrimination about kids in the Summer is not fun, and here are some tips on how kids can avoid discrimination in the Summer.
Employment Support for People with Disabilities
If you are disabled and you are pursuing employment, you are not alone. You can find many agencies providing employment support that will help you reach your vocational goal. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Centers for Independent Living Employment Networks Disability Program Navigator Initiative Disability Rights Florida The Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Autistic Man Fired from Cargill because of stereotypes about Diabetes
People with diabetes face unfair stereotypes and discrimination at work, at school, and elsewhere in their lives
The Wallet Card presented at the Family Café
By Rachel Goldstein Senior Staff Attorney Rachel Goldstein attended the 17th Annual Family Café in Orlando, Florida and gave a presentation, One Tool for Successful Interactions with Police: The Wallet Card. The Wallet Card Project is the product of a unique collaboration between Disability Independence Group, the Coral Gables Police Department and the UM-NSU… Read More »
