To whom ever needs to hear this,
When leaders speak on critical issues, it is important that what they say shows some level of understanding of the issue, or more importantly the people, they are speaking about. Their words impact real people and their lives.
And, in the midst of Autism Awareness month, it is evident that awareness is needed now more than ever.
It’s Not About Can’t
Individuals living with Autism not only “can” pay taxes and hold jobs, but they DO pay taxes and hold jobs. I know this because I have personally taught and onboarded many such individuals to do just that in local businesses in Westchester and Putnam Counties in New York, and Fairfield County in Connecticut.
Businesses from diners, to coffee shops, to libraries and book stores, to super markets and beyond. These individuals have been non-verbal, very verbal, needed some support, or are fully independent. But they are ALL working these jobs with dignity.
Working in a local Diner
Working in a local Super Market
Individuals living with Autism not only “can” play sports, but they DO play sports. I know this because I have personally taught and coached many such individuals of all ages and abilities.
Learning to play Basketball
Learning to play with peers
I have coached young people living with Autism to play basketball, football, lacrosse, to rock climb, and to even learn to ride a bike, and then go on to win a 25 mile road race. These individuals have been non-verbal, very verbal, had challenging behaviors, or have anxiety. But they ALL, were able to learn, perform, and overcome.
Right after winning a 25 Mile Road Race
Learning to Rock Climb
Individuals living with Autism not only “can” have meaningful relationships (romantic or any other kind), but they DO have meaningful relationships that last years. I know this because I personally have been on the receiving end of genuine admiration, friendship, and respect from the many individuals I have supported over the last 15 years.
A hug after a long days work
Years later, still having fun
I have personally seen the love for parents and siblings, the desire for friendship from peers and partners, and the admiration for those who have genuinely shown that they are seen.
Living With Dignity
All of these individuals live with dignity. They live with a potential that so many refuse to see or acknowledge, but when actually tapped into, produces amazing things. I do not speak for all individuals living with Autism, nor their families. As Temple Grandin famously said, “If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met ONE person with Autism”.
But, from my personal, lived experience, I have seen first hand what so many of these individuals are capable of. I’m even more impressed when I am reminded of just how much harder so many of them have to work to simply be seen and respected.
That’s why I am saddened by recent remarks made by a prominent leader in our federal government. It is also why I thought it important to share my own experience as a Special Educator, behaviorist, and presenter at the largest behavior science convention in the world.
I speak from lived experience, a place of empathy, and a reminder that ALL people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be given a fair chance to demonstrate the many wonderful contributions they make to our world on a daily basis.
When we place politics above people, we lose sight that we are ALL neighbors, we are ALL figuring out our way forward, and we ALL do that better when we do it together.
Warmly,
Brett Yarris, Candidate for Putnam County Legislator, District 5
Carmel Hamlet • Lake Carmel • Sparrow Ridge • Hill and Dale • Fairways
