Autistic Self Advocacy Network-Baltimore Chapter December Meetup

This is a meeting of the Baltimore Chapter of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), an organization of individuals on the autism spectrum, including Asperger's Syndrome and our allies. This is the first meeting open to parents, relatives, professionals and others as well as individuals on the spectrum.

This meeting will include an introduction to ASAN, a discussion of the autistic self-advocate movement, discussion about hardships and positive aspects of the autism spectrum and other respectful discussion about autism and asperger's issues.. In addition, general discussion is welcome. The meeting is open to all without charge. We encourage attendance by all who share or are interested in learning more about our perspective, a summary of which is below.

The Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a non profit organization run by Autistics (those on the Autism Spectrum), those with other unique neurological types and neurotypical family members, professionals, educators and friends. ASAN was created to provide support and services to individuals on the autism spectrum while working to change public perception and combat misinformation by educating communities about persons on the Autism Spectrum.

We believe that the autism spectrum and those on it are important and necessary parts of the wide diversity present in human genetics. ASAN supports Autism Acceptance through measures to promote success for each person on the spectrum. By abandoning old and inaccurate models of pathology and adopting a new approach focusing on both the unique challenges and strengths of autistics, we believe that we can improve outcomes and promote a new paradigm of inclusion and respect. As an organization founded by autistics and friends and family of those on the spectrum, we are committed to advancing self-advocacy, self-determination, self-awareness and independent living throughout all aspects of society.