Thread by @TweetingAutism

#Autism "acceptance" can mean two things. Acceptance of people with #ASD, their rights, their best interests. Giving them appropriate support, helping them to achieve maximum quality of life. This is what should be expected in any civilised society. 1/4

But "acceptance" is also used to mean: acceptance that #ASD, and all the severe/devastating disabilities that sometimes go with it, cannot, even should not be treated. That there should be no research into treatments. That all that needs to change are attitudes to #autism. 2/4

We view the second kind of "acceptance" as harmful extremism and wilful neglect, even abuse. Why should for example adults with #autism and severe cognitive/motor impairments have to rely on strangers to change their diapers if treatment could give them independence? 3/4

THAT is the #autism "acceptance" we don't accept. Acceptance of the status quo leaving people with #ASD vulnerable to neglect/abuse. Research shows at least some autism may be amenable to treatment. We will continue to campaign for more research. And we WON'T be silenced. 4/4