On World Autism Awareness Day, we recognize and celebrate the rights of persons with autism.
Persons with autism have the right to self-determination, independence and autonomy, as well as the right to education and employment on an equal basis with others.
Universal human rights, including the rights of persons with disabilities, must not be infringed upon in the time of a pandemic. Governments have a responsibility to ensure that their response includes persons with autism. Persons with autism should never face discrimination when seeking medical care. They must continue to have access to the support systems required to remain in their homes and communities through times of crisis, instead of facing the prospect of forced institutionalization.
