Presume competence.
It is essential that we start with, and celebrate, strengths in every aspect of our work to promote human dignity. Deficit-based approached and remediation prevent true inclusion and stifle broader progress.
Empower the individual.
It's critical to provide opportunities to support individuals' autonomy, build their competence, and feel related to those around them. This supports them to recognize and celebrate their strengths, choices, and connections. Having agency, power, and choice help lead to a self-determined, happy, productive life.
We all belong here.
Spaces must be accessible and promote equitable participation in all aspects of community life. Inclusive institutions recognize, honor and are responsive to the complexities and intersectionality of each individual's social identity.
Our work is ever evolving.
In order to truly advance and transform systems we must continue to reflect on, learn from, center the autistic experience, and be responsive to the needs of the communities we serve.
The team is the expert.
Work is more authentic, far reaching, and comprehensive when collaboration is the foundation. Impactful organizations create systems change by cultivating partnerships with autistic advocates and key stakeholders from the communities served as we learn from one another and share both expertise and lived experience.
