Autism Acceptance Month: You’re with us!
Autism Acceptance Month: What It Means To Me
By: Leo Hellawell
This month is Autism Acceptance Month, which carries quite a bit of meaning for our community at You’re With Us. It is important for the community in Boston to show support and increase their awareness of this disability. Many of those on the autism spectrum struggle from being isolated and feeling like outcasts of society. Isolation is not their choice; rather, it can be as a result of not being accepted by society. Some of the daily struggles that those with autism face can range from difficulty with social skills to challenges with time management and organization. As members of the Boston community, we need to show that we are available and there to help — we can allow those with ASD to feel like they are not alone.
You might ask yourself, well, what can I do? Inclusion opportunities have to be sought out and found, they don’t just show up. I myself mentor a couple individuals who have ASD. I have found that the best way to get them engaged is by doing activities that either get the blood flowing or activities that allow them to use their imagination. Having new experiences and meeting new people allows those with autism to feel like they are a part of something, that autism doesn’t make them worse than others, but in fact makes them even more unique.
Some of the activities that I have participated in with my mentees who have ASD have ranged from throwing a baseball or football to going to the Museum of Fine Arts or Museum of Science. We’ve planned even simpler activities, such as walking down to Newbury Street or visiting the Prudential Center. I’ve observed that many of those with autism don’t have enough people to talk to and share their thoughts with. Having someone who is willing to listen, share thoughts, and provide advice can make a huge difference.
Enough about me: let’s talk about what you can do! If you know someone or have a family member with ASD, you can get them in touch with a DDS coordinator. What a DDS coordinator does is help those with intellectual and developmental disabilities find and access support to help with life skills and social skills. DDS coordinators also advocate for the rights of those with disabilities by finding the right programming and ensuring that it is sufficient for those whom they are helping.
If you’re trying to support someone you know who has autism, a number of resources exist in the community. The Alamo Theater in Boston holds an inclusive program for those with autism every Tuesday. It is called “Alamo for All,” and shows before 2 p.m. are adjusted to be sensory friendly. The lights are turned up, and the sound is turned down. The unique part of this event is that talking and interaction is encouraged. Usually during movies, you are supposed to be silent, but not in this case. The conversational aspect of the screenings make for a more engaging experience.
Achilles Boston also holds a running club on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m. for those with disabilities. I had mentioned that getting the blood flowing and participating in events with new people can be beneficial for those with autism in helping them to feel included. The cool thing about this running club is that you can participate as a volunteer while also attending with someone you know that has ASD. Join, meet new people, help out, and show those with ASD that they aren’t alone.
You’re With Us also holds events to raise awareness and promote inclusivity. On May 13, You’re With Us is planning a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts! The aim of this trip is to learn more about classic works of art, while also socializing and meeting new people. Attending this event would be a great way to speak and socialize with those who have ASD, while also enjoying art.
These are only a few of the many ways that you can learn about autism, show support, and raise awareness. Those with autism may struggle with parts of life that come easier to most, but this does not mean that they are alone! Attend events, socialize, and speak up to create an inclusive community and make Autism Awareness Month special!