Autistic Self Advocacy Network and parent meet-ups in Portland

July 5, 2:06 PMPortland Autism & Parenting ExaminerLori White

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Among the many articles in my inbox, there was a great article in Newsweek about Ari Ne'eman, a man with autism. It was titled "Erasing Autism" and started by saying this man was worried. I was interested.

This man goes on to talk about what a lot of the autistic community has been discussing - cure not needed. Autism is a part of his identity. It also turns out Ari runs the Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN).  This is a great organization run by and for people with autism. The ASAN is dedicated to helping "change public perception" and "encourage inclusion and respect for neurodiversity". The ASAN also encourages community meet-ups and have several chapters in different states.

There are two meet up groups here in Portland. One is for young adults and adults on the spectrum with the other being for those parenting autistic children. Better yet, there are 120 parents in that group. You can sign up to be a member where you can talk on line to other people wanting to befriend other parents with autistic children. Also, play dates are asked for on the board too. Check out both of these site by following the links below. And remember to check my link lists below for more great places in Portland for your autistic children.

http://autism.meetup.com/92/messages/boards/  

http://autism.meetup.com/92/members/  members

http://www.meetup.com/PDX-Autistic-Self-Advocacy-Network - For young adults and adults on the spectrum