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Write letters and e-mails
You can find links to e-mail your representative here: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
You will need the last 4 #s of your zip code, which you can find here: http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp
(Thanks to MarineBiology01 for the links!)
MarineBiology01 also provided a form letter (although you are free to write your own!) :
Dear Congressman or Congresswoman [LAST NAME]:
As your constituent, I am writing to you concerning HR 2421, the “Combating Autism Act of 2005,” which, as I understand, is aimed at providing federal funds to “combat autism through epidemiological research, screening, intervention and education efforts.”
As a [parent, teacher, autistic person, concerned citizen, etc.], I appreciate the efforts to raise awareness, but am concerned about certain aspects of this legislation.
Congresswoman Mary Bono, the lead sponsor of this bill has stated that, “Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in our nation. Fortunately, the medical community is responding by increasing their efforts to effectively diagnose, treat and cure this disorder” and that the purpose of the current legislation is to “support the medical community by augmenting current federal efforts.”
Although I support efforts to provide effective diagnosis and quality educational programs, five words in the above statement prevent me from supporting this bill: “treat and cure this disorder.” Myself, and many others view persons with autism and other “disabilities” as unique individuals who have, as Tony Attwood stated about persons with Asperger’s Syndrome, “a different, not defective, way of thinking” and experiencing the world. They [or We] are not “broken,” and therefore do not need to be “fixed” or “cured.”
There are many notable persons with autism that credit their neurological differences to their success in their area of expertise. First to come to mind is Dr. Temple Grandin, a noted expert in the field of livestock handling who has designed commonly used cattle processing facilities that are more humane than what has been used in the past.
Also worth noting is 2002 Nobel Laureate in Economics Vernon Smith, who credits Asperger Syndrome (which is considered by many to be on the autism spectrum) with his ability to concentrate. He says that this contributed to his ability to win the Nobel Prize.
Many historical figures such as Albert Einstein, Emily Dickinson, and Thomas Edison (and many others), have also been thought by some to have some form of autism.
I believe that neurological differences such as autism are something to be accepted, welcomed, and valued in society, not "cured." On the other hand, I do understand the challenges that many teachers, parents, and autistic persons face.
I would support autism legislation aimed at improving public education and services for students with autism. I believe that teachers and parents of students at all age levels need additional research, support, and training to develop quality educational programs. Awareness and information needs to be provided to all teachers, "regular" and special education college students (future teachers), parents, and to the general public. I believe that this nation has made great progress in welcoming the diversity that makes it strong. Let’s continue the trend by supporting, not “curing,” persons with this form of diversity.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
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