Autism Speaks

An international organization that has mixed support from the autistic community due to their lack of representation by autistic people within the organization and the concern that their end goal is to “cure” autism as if it was a pathological condition to be extinguished. This is perceived a threatening to the lives of those with autism who want to be understood not cured or eliminated. Their Mission Statement Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We do this through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.