Controversial Issues

February 26, 2013May 3, 2019 Joel Manzer

One thing is very certain about the Autism Community – we are a very diverse group of people with very strong stances on what we believe.

This is not a bad thing, but rather encouraging as we are parents and individuals who deal with a subject that affects people who are near and dear to our hearts.

The aspect of tackling the puzzle of Autism is inclusive – as we can all learn from each other, with the hope that what we are sharing brings about a mutual respect for one another.

Just as the United States is a melting pot of various belief’s and cultures, so is the Autism Community. People have a serious passion for what they believe and are willing to express these opinions to their heart’s content.

The challenge here is how to address specific issues that are considered rather, well, controversial.

For example from personal experience – the first time people approach me about Autism, the question they initially ask is my stance on Vaccines. Next is what type of diet – Gluten Free, etc…?

The common list of topics come up, and yet I can honestly say I don’t have a definitive stance on any topic.

Here’s the simple reason why: We don’t know anything.

For every study on an issue that promotes or supports a thought or idea, there’s another study that counters it. What works for one individual and family, may not work for another.

This is what frustrates us as a community, and at times ads fuel to the fire of confusion. It also is one major reason why some news organizations don’t want to tackle the puzzle of Autism – as they are as confused about is as much as we are. Hey, we don’t even have a consistent vocabulary within our community that speaks one voice to the general public. Semantics tend to take a pretty wide path in our community as compared with other issues out there.

We need to keep studying, keep discussing, keep pressing forward into what the ’cause’ is – but more importantly, we need to help and encourage one another.

This is why I enjoy working on Autisable. I’ve received messages and e-mails from people who have been feeling like they are the only ones dealing with Autism, and then found Autisable and were relieved to get ideas and support.

So, no matter what Controversial issue we discuss on Autisable – one thing will remain… these issues will continue to be discussed, and we hope with respect and encouragement to one another.

In this regard, we will continue to promote all viewpoints, as each person’s idea and thought can and should be valued and respected.

After all, we’re all in this together.