Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 -i think it's wonderful that you and Raven are doing these things. i agree that people with AS should not consider ourselves diseased or pathetic,and i can't stand that Autism Speaks campaign either. But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! -- In , environmental1st2003 <no_reply@...> wrote: > > Over the past three years, here is I have managed to do for the > autistic community: > > -I've created 9 online forums for people with AS > > -I've created a website for people with AS > > -I've helped in the arrest of someone who was found to have been > molesting one of our autistic underaged members. > > -I've established a relation of sorts with Donna and learned > a whole lot about autism and very great depth. > > -I've advocated in real life pro-bono on behalf of Aspie children > > -Made TV appearances and commented in newspaper articles about the > injustices done to the people I have advocated for. > > Here is what Raven has done for the autistic community: > > -Advocated on behalf of Aspie children through the newspaper and > television media > > -Founded the Midnight in Chicago project > > -Created a website to promote the project and by proxy, autism > > -Arranged for a 12 page interview between her autistic son and Donna > in which HE speaks for himself and for others with autism > (to wit: YOU) > > -Created a CD which, when sold, profits two autistic organizations > > -Started a campaign against Autism Speaks, and organization that > wishes to eliminate autistics and our kind from the face of the > planet before they are born, and " cure " those of us who are already > born > > Here is what the two of us have done together: > > -Generated countless art cards and prints for sale to help benefit > those with autism. > > -Created 6 podcaasts on autism, 3 of which are currently available > online, to educate people about autism and to promote the rights of > people who have it. > > -Helped parents personally in the Family Forum with overcoming the > trouble they are having advocating for their own children > > Here is what is NEXT on the agenda: > > -Getting actor Dan Akroyd (who has AS) to help us autistics out. > > -Getting more sponsors than last year to spread the word about the > project and about autism. > > -Painting even more art cards and putting them on the web to sell so > that even MORE money can go to autistic organizations and help those > who need it better educate themselves and get vocational training. > > Here is what all of you have to say about our efforts: > > NOTHING > > So I just wanted to take this moment to say that even though none of > you ASKED for us to do all this for you, you all might take a moment > or two from your personal lives and ask yourselves where you would > all be if people like Raven and I, and her son, and Donna > didn't get off our asses and stick up for you. > > Any of you who may have experienced prejudice against you, or > mistreatment, or whatever, can be content to wait it out some more > while Raven and I continue to work on your behalf. > > But know this: We are fast coming to realize that perhaps our efforts > are misplaced. > > -How much time should we be spending advocating for unappreciative > people who will not advocate for themselves? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who are content > to set bad examples for other autistics by sopending time on other > forums delighting in perverse conversations about sex, drugs, and > killing, revenge, and destruction against non-autistics? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who seem to > believe that the only way to autistic vindication is for the UN to > declare that we are a pathetic, pitiful minority and entitled to all > the handouts ensuing therefrom? > > For the past three years we have listened to all you people complain > about how lousy your lives are. We listened, and we heard. And we are > doing something about it. > > What are you all doing? > > Still bitching about how bad things are and ignoring those who are > trying to help you out. Is it any wonder society wants nothing to do > with you? > > Tom > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 -i think it's wonderful that you and Raven are doing these things. i agree that people with AS should not consider ourselves diseased or pathetic,and i can't stand that Autism Speaks campaign either. But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! -- In , environmental1st2003 <no_reply@...> wrote: > > Over the past three years, here is I have managed to do for the > autistic community: > > -I've created 9 online forums for people with AS > > -I've created a website for people with AS > > -I've helped in the arrest of someone who was found to have been > molesting one of our autistic underaged members. > > -I've established a relation of sorts with Donna and learned > a whole lot about autism and very great depth. > > -I've advocated in real life pro-bono on behalf of Aspie children > > -Made TV appearances and commented in newspaper articles about the > injustices done to the people I have advocated for. > > Here is what Raven has done for the autistic community: > > -Advocated on behalf of Aspie children through the newspaper and > television media > > -Founded the Midnight in Chicago project > > -Created a website to promote the project and by proxy, autism > > -Arranged for a 12 page interview between her autistic son and Donna > in which HE speaks for himself and for others with autism > (to wit: YOU) > > -Created a CD which, when sold, profits two autistic organizations > > -Started a campaign against Autism Speaks, and organization that > wishes to eliminate autistics and our kind from the face of the > planet before they are born, and " cure " those of us who are already > born > > Here is what the two of us have done together: > > -Generated countless art cards and prints for sale to help benefit > those with autism. > > -Created 6 podcaasts on autism, 3 of which are currently available > online, to educate people about autism and to promote the rights of > people who have it. > > -Helped parents personally in the Family Forum with overcoming the > trouble they are having advocating for their own children > > Here is what is NEXT on the agenda: > > -Getting actor Dan Akroyd (who has AS) to help us autistics out. > > -Getting more sponsors than last year to spread the word about the > project and about autism. > > -Painting even more art cards and putting them on the web to sell so > that even MORE money can go to autistic organizations and help those > who need it better educate themselves and get vocational training. > > Here is what all of you have to say about our efforts: > > NOTHING > > So I just wanted to take this moment to say that even though none of > you ASKED for us to do all this for you, you all might take a moment > or two from your personal lives and ask yourselves where you would > all be if people like Raven and I, and her son, and Donna > didn't get off our asses and stick up for you. > > Any of you who may have experienced prejudice against you, or > mistreatment, or whatever, can be content to wait it out some more > while Raven and I continue to work on your behalf. > > But know this: We are fast coming to realize that perhaps our efforts > are misplaced. > > -How much time should we be spending advocating for unappreciative > people who will not advocate for themselves? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who are content > to set bad examples for other autistics by sopending time on other > forums delighting in perverse conversations about sex, drugs, and > killing, revenge, and destruction against non-autistics? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who seem to > believe that the only way to autistic vindication is for the UN to > declare that we are a pathetic, pitiful minority and entitled to all > the handouts ensuing therefrom? > > For the past three years we have listened to all you people complain > about how lousy your lives are. We listened, and we heard. And we are > doing something about it. > > What are you all doing? > > Still bitching about how bad things are and ignoring those who are > trying to help you out. Is it any wonder society wants nothing to do > with you? > > Tom > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " I hear you Kajira, but the thing is, the choices some make can have a negative impact on all of us. For example... -WrongPlanet. Whenever I tell people about WP being the biggest site for Aspies that I know of, what I get is " I read about that in the papers once. That's that site that's being sued because one of its members shot their family members to death. The guy who runs the place, , and the moderating crew didn't do anything to prevent it when the guy threatened to go on a rampage. I can't believe it's so popular when it has such an irresponsible admin. You Aspies must be crazy. " -AFF. Whenever I mention AFF to people, they do a little research and come back with " They're nuts! They think the UN ought to grant people with autism minority status. No wonder people think autistics are f*cked up. " -Aspergian Island. Whenever I mention them to anyone, they say " Is that site still controlled by those loonies? " (Refers to the moderating staff that Crucibelle has since ousted.) They look at the site and say " The loonies are still there " meaning its members. So you see, by frequenting certain sites, the autistic people who frequent them contribute to how we autistics are publically perceived. In this way, it is made bad for all of us, and it makes it difficult for people to take us seriously. You cannot expect to be treated well if YOU are part of the reason people think poorly of us in the first place. Hence the constant: " Don't look at these sites " comments I make. Tom Administrator Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " I hear you Kajira, but the thing is, the choices some make can have a negative impact on all of us. For example... -WrongPlanet. Whenever I tell people about WP being the biggest site for Aspies that I know of, what I get is " I read about that in the papers once. That's that site that's being sued because one of its members shot their family members to death. The guy who runs the place, , and the moderating crew didn't do anything to prevent it when the guy threatened to go on a rampage. I can't believe it's so popular when it has such an irresponsible admin. You Aspies must be crazy. " -AFF. Whenever I mention AFF to people, they do a little research and come back with " They're nuts! They think the UN ought to grant people with autism minority status. No wonder people think autistics are f*cked up. " -Aspergian Island. Whenever I mention them to anyone, they say " Is that site still controlled by those loonies? " (Refers to the moderating staff that Crucibelle has since ousted.) They look at the site and say " The loonies are still there " meaning its members. So you see, by frequenting certain sites, the autistic people who frequent them contribute to how we autistics are publically perceived. In this way, it is made bad for all of us, and it makes it difficult for people to take us seriously. You cannot expect to be treated well if YOU are part of the reason people think poorly of us in the first place. Hence the constant: " Don't look at these sites " comments I make. Tom Administrator Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Kajria said: " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. " Tom says: Just wanted to point out that it is the choices autistics make that CAUSES people NOT to respect them as " regular human beings with all the frailties and needs as anyone else. " No one will respect us, Kajira, until we stop acting silly, and stop making choices that society deems bad. Kajira said: " Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " Tom says: Then you and other autistics need to prove your right to " the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " by making choices that others who have control over your lives can appreciate and rspect. Currently, we are regarded as loonies at best, and given the behavior of many of our fellow autistics on other websites, I can see where that perception comes from. Recognize please, that Raven and I and are fighting for exactly what you would like to see, and autistics obstruct us from achieving that goal with their own irresponsible behavior, all of which causes Raven, and I to think " Why bother? " Tom Administrator Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Hi Kajira. I agree. It's important to tell people that we are first and foremost, people. This is where most of society falls down, I believe. If everyone would just remember that we are all, first and foremost, members of the human race, differences would be viewed positively instead of negatively. That's the kind of world I hope to help build. Raven > > -i think it's wonderful that you and Raven are doing these things. i > agree that people with AS should not consider ourselves diseased or > pathetic,and i can't stand that Autism Speaks campaign either. But > please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in > terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance > of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human > beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us > feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who > never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike > qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same > freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Hi Kajira. I agree. It's important to tell people that we are first and foremost, people. This is where most of society falls down, I believe. If everyone would just remember that we are all, first and foremost, members of the human race, differences would be viewed positively instead of negatively. That's the kind of world I hope to help build. Raven > > -i think it's wonderful that you and Raven are doing these things. i > agree that people with AS should not consider ourselves diseased or > pathetic,and i can't stand that Autism Speaks campaign either. But > please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, in > terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance > of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human > beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us > feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who > never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike > qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same > freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2007 Report Share Posted June 21, 2007 I think what you are doing is fantastic and fine. It does s*ck that some don't appreciate it, unfortunately there are often many around that just don't care and will never be satisfied, happy, impressed etc. I am quite curious about your campaign agaisnt 'Autism Speaks', please tell me more, either on here or off the forums if you prefer. Everything I have heard about 'Autism Speaks' so far makes me very angry and annoyed. > > Over the past three years, here is I have managed to do for the > autistic community: > > -I've created 9 online forums for people with AS > > -I've created a website for people with AS > > -I've helped in the arrest of someone who was found to have been > molesting one of our autistic underaged members. > > -I've established a relation of sorts with Donna and learned > a whole lot about autism and very great depth. > > -I've advocated in real life pro-bono on behalf of Aspie children > > -Made TV appearances and commented in newspaper articles about the > injustices done to the people I have advocated for. > > Here is what Raven has done for the autistic community: > > -Advocated on behalf of Aspie children through the newspaper and > television media > > -Founded the Midnight in Chicago project > > -Created a website to promote the project and by proxy, autism > > -Arranged for a 12 page interview between her autistic son and Donna > in which HE speaks for himself and for others with autism > (to wit: YOU) > > -Created a CD which, when sold, profits two autistic organizations > > -Started a campaign against Autism Speaks, and organization that > wishes to eliminate autistics and our kind from the face of the > planet before they are born, and " cure " those of us who are already > born > > Here is what the two of us have done together: > > -Generated countless art cards and prints for sale to help benefit > those with autism. > > -Created 6 podcaasts on autism, 3 of which are currently available > online, to educate people about autism and to promote the rights of > people who have it. > > -Helped parents personally in the Family Forum with overcoming the > trouble they are having advocating for their own children > > Here is what is NEXT on the agenda: > > -Getting actor Dan Akroyd (who has AS) to help us autistics out. > > -Getting more sponsors than last year to spread the word about the > project and about autism. > > -Painting even more art cards and putting them on the web to sell so > that even MORE money can go to autistic organizations and help those > who need it better educate themselves and get vocational training. > > Here is what all of you have to say about our efforts: > > NOTHING > > So I just wanted to take this moment to say that even though none of > you ASKED for us to do all this for you, you all might take a moment > or two from your personal lives and ask yourselves where you would > all be if people like Raven and I, and her son, and Donna > didn't get off our asses and stick up for you. > > Any of you who may have experienced prejudice against you, or > mistreatment, or whatever, can be content to wait it out some more > while Raven and I continue to work on your behalf. > > But know this: We are fast coming to realize that perhaps our efforts > are misplaced. > > -How much time should we be spending advocating for unappreciative > people who will not advocate for themselves? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who are content > to set bad examples for other autistics by sopending time on other > forums delighting in perverse conversations about sex, drugs, and > killing, revenge, and destruction against non-autistics? > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who seem to > believe that the only way to autistic vindication is for the UN to > declare that we are a pathetic, pitiful minority and entitled to all > the handouts ensuing therefrom? > > For the past three years we have listened to all you people complain > about how lousy your lives are. We listened, and we heard. And we are > doing something about it. > > What are you all doing? > > Still bitching about how bad things are and ignoring those who are > trying to help you out. Is it any wonder society wants nothing to do > with you? > > Tom > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 Tom, Raven et al.-- I have been quite out of it for several days. It does not mean that I don't care and I am not paying attention. I am sorry that I could not say anything sooner. We have had two waves of illness in our house in the past week: first, a stomach virus (my son, me), than a surprise sinus infection seemingly out of nowhere (me). My husband was unscathed. Given the fact that it is in the 110s these days in the Phoenix area, it was rather <weird> to have a sinus infection worthy of serious antibiotics and x-rays. One can't be too careful, I suppose. In addition, I presently have six online college courses going (as the instructor) -- two if them with grad Education students --and some of whom have a bad attitude right now with me because I will not award an A for just any old slop they deign to turn in. Only two more weeks! I LOVED the interview with Cub and Donna , and I will have time soon to listed to the most recent podcast posted. Would you mind reposting the links to all the podcasts available? I have been proud of my own son and have been gently cutting back some of the scaffolding for social interactions since he is becoming more independent. After his Tae Kwon Do lesson there are a couple of kids who are a bit indifferent to Carl otherwise, but who are stuck like glue to him when he whips out his Nintendo DS after the lesson and run tornadoes around them. I think one of the kids thought Carl would be an easy mark with borrowing his games and asked him. Carl just said, "No, it's not a good idea to borrow things. You might want to get your own." He did so in a very nice way. I think the kid was a bit flabbergasted. . Then yesterday, we went to a used book/video store and it was discovered in the car that the clerk placed the wrong DVD in the case. I gave Carl the receipt and sent him back in the store. Mission accomplished! After a stint thinking Marilyn Manson was the coolest guy ever <sigh>, Carl has now discovered The Beatles so now it's all Beatles all the time. Ths include song lyrics, bio information, etc., etc. We found a VHS copy of "The Compleat Beatles" at a thrift store for 25 cents. Carl is fascinated by all the early footage of the girls chasing the Beatles as well as the music ... Anyway, I came across this video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgH65hXp0Vk & mode=related & search= "Autism- 16 Ways Neurotypicals Can Empower Autistic People" I was wondering what some of you think about this presentation and if anyone knows more about its background. Keep up the good work--everyone! Amy > >> > Over the past three years, here is I have managed to do for the > > autistic community:> > > > -I've created 9 online forums for people with AS> > > > -I've created a website for people with AS> > > > -I've helped in the arrest of someone who was found to have been > > molesting one of our autistic underaged members.> > > > -I've established a relation of sorts with Donna and > learned > > a whole lot about autism and very great depth.> > > > -I've advocated in real life pro-bono on behalf of Aspie children> > > > -Made TV appearances and commented in newspaper articles about the > > injustices done to the people I have advocated for.> > > > Here is what Raven has done for the autistic community:> > > > -Advocated on behalf of Aspie children through the newspaper and > > television media> > > > -Founded the Midnight in Chicago project> > > > -Created a website to promote the project and by proxy, autism> > > > -Arranged for a 12 page interview between her autistic son and > Donna > > in which HE speaks for himself and for others with autism > > (to wit: YOU)> > > > -Created a CD which, when sold, profits two autistic organizations> > > > -Started a campaign against Autism Speaks, and organization that > > wishes to eliminate autistics and our kind from the face of the > > planet before they are born, and "cure" those of us who are already > > born> > > > Here is what the two of us have done together:> > > > -Generated countless art cards and prints for sale to help benefit > > those with autism. > > > > -Created 6 podcaasts on autism, 3 of which are currently available > > online, to educate people about autism and to promote the rights of > > people who have it.> > > > -Helped parents personally in the Family Forum with overcoming the > > trouble they are having advocating for their own children> > > > Here is what is NEXT on the agenda:> > > > -Getting actor Dan Akroyd (who has AS) to help us autistics out.> > > > -Getting more sponsors than last year to spread the word about the > > project and about autism. > > > > -Painting even more art cards and putting them on the web to sell > so > > that even MORE money can go to autistic organizations and help > those > > who need it better educate themselves and get vocational training.> > > > Here is what all of you have to say about our efforts:> > > > NOTHING> > > > So I just wanted to take this moment to say that even though none > of > > you ASKED for us to do all this for you, you all might take a > moment > > or two from your personal lives and ask yourselves where you would > > all be if people like Raven and I, and her son, and Donna > > didn't get off our asses and stick up for you.> > > > Any of you who may have experienced prejudice against you, or > > mistreatment, or whatever, can be content to wait it out some more > > while Raven and I continue to work on your behalf.> > > > But know this: We are fast coming to realize that perhaps our > efforts > > are misplaced. > > > > -How much time should we be spending advocating for unappreciative > > people who will not advocate for themselves? > > > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who are > content > > to set bad examples for other autistics by sopending time on other > > forums delighting in perverse conversations about sex, drugs, and > > killing, revenge, and destruction against non-autistics? > > > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who seem to > > believe that the only way to autistic vindication is for the UN to > > declare that we are a pathetic, pitiful minority and entitled to > all > > the handouts ensuing therefrom?> > > > For the past three years we have listened to all you people > complain > > about how lousy your lives are. We listened, and we heard. And we > are > > doing something about it. > > > > What are you all doing?> > > > Still bitching about how bad things are and ignoring those who are > > trying to help you out. Is it any wonder society wants nothing to > do > > with you?> > > > Tom> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 Tom, Raven et al.-- I have been quite out of it for several days. It does not mean that I don't care and I am not paying attention. I am sorry that I could not say anything sooner. We have had two waves of illness in our house in the past week: first, a stomach virus (my son, me), than a surprise sinus infection seemingly out of nowhere (me). My husband was unscathed. Given the fact that it is in the 110s these days in the Phoenix area, it was rather <weird> to have a sinus infection worthy of serious antibiotics and x-rays. One can't be too careful, I suppose. In addition, I presently have six online college courses going (as the instructor) -- two if them with grad Education students --and some of whom have a bad attitude right now with me because I will not award an A for just any old slop they deign to turn in. Only two more weeks! I LOVED the interview with Cub and Donna , and I will have time soon to listed to the most recent podcast posted. Would you mind reposting the links to all the podcasts available? I have been proud of my own son and have been gently cutting back some of the scaffolding for social interactions since he is becoming more independent. After his Tae Kwon Do lesson there are a couple of kids who are a bit indifferent to Carl otherwise, but who are stuck like glue to him when he whips out his Nintendo DS after the lesson and run tornadoes around them. I think one of the kids thought Carl would be an easy mark with borrowing his games and asked him. Carl just said, "No, it's not a good idea to borrow things. You might want to get your own." He did so in a very nice way. I think the kid was a bit flabbergasted. . Then yesterday, we went to a used book/video store and it was discovered in the car that the clerk placed the wrong DVD in the case. I gave Carl the receipt and sent him back in the store. Mission accomplished! After a stint thinking Marilyn Manson was the coolest guy ever <sigh>, Carl has now discovered The Beatles so now it's all Beatles all the time. Ths include song lyrics, bio information, etc., etc. We found a VHS copy of "The Compleat Beatles" at a thrift store for 25 cents. Carl is fascinated by all the early footage of the girls chasing the Beatles as well as the music ... Anyway, I came across this video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgH65hXp0Vk & mode=related & search= "Autism- 16 Ways Neurotypicals Can Empower Autistic People" I was wondering what some of you think about this presentation and if anyone knows more about its background. Keep up the good work--everyone! Amy > >> > Over the past three years, here is I have managed to do for the > > autistic community:> > > > -I've created 9 online forums for people with AS> > > > -I've created a website for people with AS> > > > -I've helped in the arrest of someone who was found to have been > > molesting one of our autistic underaged members.> > > > -I've established a relation of sorts with Donna and > learned > > a whole lot about autism and very great depth.> > > > -I've advocated in real life pro-bono on behalf of Aspie children> > > > -Made TV appearances and commented in newspaper articles about the > > injustices done to the people I have advocated for.> > > > Here is what Raven has done for the autistic community:> > > > -Advocated on behalf of Aspie children through the newspaper and > > television media> > > > -Founded the Midnight in Chicago project> > > > -Created a website to promote the project and by proxy, autism> > > > -Arranged for a 12 page interview between her autistic son and > Donna > > in which HE speaks for himself and for others with autism > > (to wit: YOU)> > > > -Created a CD which, when sold, profits two autistic organizations> > > > -Started a campaign against Autism Speaks, and organization that > > wishes to eliminate autistics and our kind from the face of the > > planet before they are born, and "cure" those of us who are already > > born> > > > Here is what the two of us have done together:> > > > -Generated countless art cards and prints for sale to help benefit > > those with autism. > > > > -Created 6 podcaasts on autism, 3 of which are currently available > > online, to educate people about autism and to promote the rights of > > people who have it.> > > > -Helped parents personally in the Family Forum with overcoming the > > trouble they are having advocating for their own children> > > > Here is what is NEXT on the agenda:> > > > -Getting actor Dan Akroyd (who has AS) to help us autistics out.> > > > -Getting more sponsors than last year to spread the word about the > > project and about autism. > > > > -Painting even more art cards and putting them on the web to sell > so > > that even MORE money can go to autistic organizations and help > those > > who need it better educate themselves and get vocational training.> > > > Here is what all of you have to say about our efforts:> > > > NOTHING> > > > So I just wanted to take this moment to say that even though none > of > > you ASKED for us to do all this for you, you all might take a > moment > > or two from your personal lives and ask yourselves where you would > > all be if people like Raven and I, and her son, and Donna > > didn't get off our asses and stick up for you.> > > > Any of you who may have experienced prejudice against you, or > > mistreatment, or whatever, can be content to wait it out some more > > while Raven and I continue to work on your behalf.> > > > But know this: We are fast coming to realize that perhaps our > efforts > > are misplaced. > > > > -How much time should we be spending advocating for unappreciative > > people who will not advocate for themselves? > > > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who are > content > > to set bad examples for other autistics by sopending time on other > > forums delighting in perverse conversations about sex, drugs, and > > killing, revenge, and destruction against non-autistics? > > > > -How much time should we spend advocating for people who seem to > > believe that the only way to autistic vindication is for the UN to > > declare that we are a pathetic, pitiful minority and entitled to > all > > the handouts ensuing therefrom?> > > > For the past three years we have listened to all you people > complain > > about how lousy your lives are. We listened, and we heard. And we > are > > doing something about it. > > > > What are you all doing?> > > > Still bitching about how bad things are and ignoring those who are > > trying to help you out. Is it any wonder society wants nothing to > do > > with you?> > > > Tom> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 " I LOVED the interview with Cub and Donna , and I will have time soon to listed to the most recent podcast posted. Would you mind reposting the links to all the podcasts available? " Look here: http://mic.mypodcast.com/ You will find: Podcast Number 1: Welcome to the Midnight In Chicago International Initiative Podcast Number 2: Autism, Asperger Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorders Podcast Number 3: AS and ASD Web Resources and Forum Communities Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 " Hence the constant: " Don't look at these sites " comments I make. " Mmmmmmmmm say that to some and the first thing they will do is go look. For instance I was told about Aspergia, it sounded good and then another person warned me not to go there - of course I asked why. I politely listened to everything they said to me and said, I'd still check it out. The person became livid with me saying I was ignoring all their warnings, I politely but firmly told them - I was not ignoring their warnings and that I had taken on board what they had said and would procede with caution - their words caused me to be wary - but if I hadn't have gone on Aspergia I would never have ended up here - and I'm glad I am here :-) As for the sites you mention, yes I agree with you - I have viewed them in the past and they are not nice places to be - so I stay here :-) whilst ever here remains (hopefully for a long time :-), hint hint) :-) > > " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not like, > in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the acceptance > of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are regular human > beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone else. Some of us > feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as children who > never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep some childlike > qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should have the same > freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " > > I hear you Kajira, but the thing is, the choices some make can have a > negative impact on all of us. > > For example... > > -WrongPlanet. Whenever I tell people about WP being the biggest site > for Aspies that I know of, what I get is " I read about that in the > papers once. That's that site that's being sued because one of its > members shot their family members to death. The guy who runs the place, > , and the moderating crew didn't do anything to prevent it when the > guy threatened to go on a rampage. I can't believe it's so popular when > it has such an irresponsible admin. You Aspies must be crazy. " > > -AFF. Whenever I mention AFF to people, they do a little research and > come back with " They're nuts! They think the UN ought to grant people > with autism minority status. No wonder people think autistics are > f*cked up. " > > -Aspergian Island. Whenever I mention them to anyone, they say " Is that > site still controlled by those loonies? " (Refers to the moderating staff > that Crucibelle has since ousted.) They look at the site and say " The > loonies are still there " meaning its members. > > So you see, by frequenting certain sites, the autistic people who > frequent them contribute to how we autistics are publically perceived. > In this way, it is made bad for all of us, and it makes it difficult > for people to take us seriously. > > You cannot expect to be treated well if YOU are part of the reason > people think poorly of us in the first place. > > Hence the constant: " Don't look at these sites " comments I make. > > Tom > Administrator > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 " Recognize please, that Raven and I and are fighting for exactly what you would like to see, and autistics obstruct us from achieving that goal with their own irresponsible behavior, all of which causes Raven, and I to think " Why bother? " " Errrrrrrrrrrrr because there are some that really do appreciate your efforts. If you, Raven and gave up, I'd be devastated (no lie) I consider all 3 of you an inspiration and gives me some hope in humanity, that there are still people out there who care. I don't want you to fail, I want to see you succeed - it is my sincere hope that if more that care start to support one another then maybe things will begin to change - I don't imagine this happening overnight - but the things I am (and have been involved with) do not glean immediate results always, but they create a better future, but it has to start somewhere. I consider myself quietely determined - other people might see this as stubborn - I don't care :-) I'd rather be stubborn/determined than apathetic. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm am I posting a tad too much at the moment? - that's what happens when you stuck in the house with a broken toe :-) > > Kajria said: > > " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not > like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the > acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are > regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone > else. " > > Tom says: > > Just wanted to point out that it is the choices autistics make that > CAUSES people NOT to respect them as " regular human beings with all > the frailties and needs as anyone else. " > > No one will respect us, Kajira, until we stop acting silly, and stop > making choices that society deems bad. > > Kajira said: > > " Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as > children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep > some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should > have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other > adults! " > > Tom says: > > Then you and other autistics need to prove your right to " the same > freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " by > making choices that others who have control over your lives can > appreciate and rspect. Currently, we are regarded as loonies at best, > and given the behavior of many of our fellow autistics on other > websites, I can see where that perception comes from. > > Recognize please, that Raven and I and are fighting for exactly > what you would like to see, and autistics obstruct us from achieving > that goal with their own irresponsible behavior, all of which causes > Raven, and I to think " Why bother? " > > Tom > Administrator > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 22, 2007 Report Share Posted June 22, 2007 " Recognize please, that Raven and I and are fighting for exactly what you would like to see, and autistics obstruct us from achieving that goal with their own irresponsible behavior, all of which causes Raven, and I to think " Why bother? " " Errrrrrrrrrrrr because there are some that really do appreciate your efforts. If you, Raven and gave up, I'd be devastated (no lie) I consider all 3 of you an inspiration and gives me some hope in humanity, that there are still people out there who care. I don't want you to fail, I want to see you succeed - it is my sincere hope that if more that care start to support one another then maybe things will begin to change - I don't imagine this happening overnight - but the things I am (and have been involved with) do not glean immediate results always, but they create a better future, but it has to start somewhere. I consider myself quietely determined - other people might see this as stubborn - I don't care :-) I'd rather be stubborn/determined than apathetic. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm am I posting a tad too much at the moment? - that's what happens when you stuck in the house with a broken toe :-) > > Kajria said: > > " But please don't criticize people for making choices you may not > like, in terms of the forums and websites they enjoy. Part of the > acceptance of autistics and AS people, is realizing that we are > regular human beings with all the frailities and needs as anyone > else. " > > Tom says: > > Just wanted to point out that it is the choices autistics make that > CAUSES people NOT to respect them as " regular human beings with all > the frailties and needs as anyone else. " > > No one will respect us, Kajira, until we stop acting silly, and stop > making choices that society deems bad. > > Kajira said: > > " Some of us feel that there is a view of AS people and autistics as > children who never grow up. While it is true that many of us keep > some childlike qualities, which can be good, we are adults and should > have the same freedom of speech, association and choices as all other > adults! " > > Tom says: > > Then you and other autistics need to prove your right to " the same > freedom of speech, association and choices as all other adults! " by > making choices that others who have control over your lives can > appreciate and rspect. Currently, we are regarded as loonies at best, > and given the behavior of many of our fellow autistics on other > websites, I can see where that perception comes from. > > Recognize please, that Raven and I and are fighting for exactly > what you would like to see, and autistics obstruct us from achieving > that goal with their own irresponsible behavior, all of which causes > Raven, and I to think " Why bother? " > > Tom > Administrator > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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