Category Archives: autism

ASAN Responds to GOP Debate on Vaccines: Not Better Off Dead Than Disabled

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[Editor’s Note:  This awesomely strong and timely Autistic Self Advocacy Network’s response to the GOP debate remarks on autism and vaccines is reprinted with permission.] ASAN Statement on GOP Primary Debate Comments on Autism and Vaccination September 16, 2015 Despite a wealth of scientific evidence debunking any link between autism and vaccinations, tonight’s Republican primary … Continue reading ASAN Responds to GOP Debate on Vaccines: Not Better Off Dead Than Disabled →

Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN), Disability Community Statement on Sentencing of Kelli Stapleton

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On October 7th, Kelli Stapleton will be sentenced for First Degree Child Abuse in a Michigan courtroom.  The following is a summary of the facts written by attorney Samantha Crane regarding Kelli Stapleton’s attempt to kill her autistic daughter and the aftermath in the media and public discourse.  It provides the background and context for … Continue reading Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN), Disability Community Statement on Sentencing of Kelli Stapleton →

Autistic Self Advocacy Network: “ASAN Condemns Media Coverage of the Attempted Murder of Issy Stapleton” (Release)

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ASAN Condemns Media Coverage of the Attempted Murder of Issy Stapleton October 14, 2013 The Autistic Self Advocacy Network issued a statement on Monday, October 14th, expressing dismay at the media coverage of the attempted murder of Issy Stapleton, age 14. Both local and national media coverage of Issy’s attempted murder have emphasized her mother’s … Continue reading Autistic Self Advocacy Network: “ASAN Condemns Media Coverage of the Attempted Murder of Issy Stapleton” (Release) →

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: “They want us to die: You wouldn’t believe how many people hate those of us with autism”

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This op-ed was published in the Sunday, April 7 edition of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.  It’s written by Selene dePackh, who is an artist and writer.  She’s also autistic. dePakh’s op-ed describes the reality that many of us are all too aware of, but sharing it with a broad audience.  For whatever reason, the online comments … Continue reading Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: “They want us to die: You wouldn’t believe how many people hate those of us with autism” →

Disability and Representation blog: “Amanda Baggs, The Pressure To Die, and the Case Against Assisted Suicide” by Rachel Cohen-Rottenberg

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For about a week now, activists and advocates have been engaging in the fight to safeguard the health and safety of Amanda Baggs, one woman dealing with medical ignorance, apparent bigotry, and regular messages that her life isn’t one worth saving.  Even now, a positive outcome isn’t assured. (I direct blog readers to just peruse … Continue reading Disability and Representation blog: “Amanda Baggs, The Pressure To Die, and the Case Against Assisted Suicide” by Rachel Cohen-Rottenberg →