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The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a nonprofit organization in the United States that advocates for the rights and inclusion of autistic individuals. Founded in 2006 by Ari Ne’eman, ASAN is a leading organization in the neurodiversity movement, which seeks to recognize and respect neurological differences as a natural and valuable form of human diversity.

Mission: ASAN's mission is to empower autistic people to have a voice in policy decisions that impact their lives. The organization believes in the principle of "Nothing About Us, Without Us," advocating for autistic individuals to be at the forefront of discussions, policy-making, and services that affect them.

Core Activities:

1. Advocacy:

   • ASAN engages in policy advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels to protect the civil rights of autistic individuals. The organization focuses on areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and housing, striving to eliminate discriminatory practices and promote inclusion.
   • They work to ensure that autistic people have access to services and supports that allow them to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

2. Public Policy:

   • ASAN produces policy reports and briefs on issues affecting the autistic community. They collaborate with policymakers to influence legislation that impacts autistic people, including initiatives on disability rights, healthcare access, and employment opportunities.

3. Community Support:

   • ASAN provides resources and support to the autistic community, including self-advocacy tools, educational materials, and information on navigating systems such as education and healthcare.
   • They also run community programs aimed at building leadership skills among autistic individuals, helping them to become effective advocates for themselves and their peers.

4. Education and Awareness:

   • The organization works to change societal perceptions of autism by promoting understanding and acceptance of autistic people. ASAN challenges harmful stereotypes and misconceptions, emphasizing the strengths and potential of autistic individuals.
   • They provide training and resources to educators, employers, and service providers to better support autistic people in various settings.

5. Research and Publications:

   • ASAN is involved in research initiatives that prioritize the perspectives and experiences of autistic people. They advocate for research that respects autistic voices and focuses on improving quality of life rather than "curing" or eradicating autism.
   • The organization publishes books, reports, and guides that cover a wide range of topics, from policy analysis to personal stories from autistic individuals.

6. Annual Projects and Events:

   • ASAN hosts several annual events, including conferences, workshops, and webinars, which provide a platform for autistic individuals to connect, share experiences, and engage in advocacy.
   • They also organize awareness campaigns, such as "Autism Acceptance Month" every April, to promote positive and accurate representations of autism.

Leadership: ASAN is led by autistic individuals, with a board of directors and staff that includes many people on the autism spectrum. This leadership structure ensures that the organization's work is guided by those with lived experience of autism.

Impact: ASAN has been instrumental in advancing the rights of autistic people in the United States. Their advocacy has contributed to significant policy changes, increased public awareness of neurodiversity, and empowered countless autistic individuals to become self-advocates. The organization’s work has also influenced global perspectives on autism, promoting a shift from a medical model of disability to a social model that values diversity.

Contact and Further Information:

• Website: autisticadvocacy.org
• Social Media: ASAN maintains an active presence on social media platforms, where they share updates on their advocacy work, resources, and upcoming events.

ASAN continues to be a driving force in the neurodiversity movement, advocating for a world where autistic people are accepted, included, and able to thrive as their authentic selves.