Discussing Autism

The political debates are on and right out front is their stance on autism. Why? Because autism is on the rise (well, perhaps…), because autism went to the Hill this year, and because autism communities are battling insurance companies for coverage in every state across the nation. Because, because, because, because, because…I certainly could go on (ahem…a billboard?)

Nonetheless, candidates are lining up their “Autism and Disabilities” platforms to ensure the public that these areas will be addressed in their presidency. Hmmm…or is it all just fluff?

Obama’s Plan:
“We must build a world free of unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and discrimination,” the senator from Illinois said in a video announcement on his Web site. “Policies must be developed, attitudes must be shaped, and buildings and organizations must be designed to ensure that everyone has a chance to get the education they need and live independently as full citizens in their communities.”

The plan consists of four parts: providing Americans with disabilities the educational opportunities they need to succeed; ending discrimination and promoting equal opportunity; increasing the employment rate of workers with disabilities; and supporting independent, community-based living for Americans with disabilities. This includes, full funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), adoption of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and support for mental health parity.

Obama also singled out autism spectrum disorders in his video announcement. “To meet the needs of the growing numbers of Americans with autism, we need a comprehensive approach that includes not just screening but early intervention, research, and education services,” he said.

As a man who supports programs for autism, he seems to be of his word. In Illinois he has spearheaded welfare reform, child care subsidies, tax credits for the working poor, State Funding and the “most significant finance reform law in Illinois in 25 years”…but I had never heard of him until he went Nationwhide in 2004.

As a born and bread Chicagoan, I was living in Michigan while Obama was reforming the “tough and corrupt” Illinois Senate. I was in Krabi, Thailand when Obama made headlines all over the world.

“I learned that if you’re willing to listen to people, it’s possible to bridge a lot of the differences that dominate the national political debate,” Mr. Obama said in an interview on Friday. “I pretty quickly got to form relationships with Republicans, with individuals from rural parts of the state, and we had a lot in common.”

Is he the next great one? As a man of culture and diversity he also seems to understand the need for awareness and acceptance, no matter what the arena. He seems capable of seeing through propoganda and getting to the heart of issues…to the equal rights of people, not just the voting issues. However, in 2007 voting has taken a backseat to Obama’s campaign. Shouldn’t that take precedent?

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