Where Is All The Autism Awareness?

This is a new story, yet the theme is nothing short of disgustingly familiar. Another autistic child being kicked out, this time from an airplane. We've seen this play out time and time again, with children being booted from school, church, the movies, and Boy Scouts. Where is all the Autism Awareness?

Here we are, trying to live our lives with our children. And all too often, the treatment we receive from those in society ranges from rude to cruel. The stares, snickers, and whispers are one thing. But lately, it seems the job of parenting an autistic child and that of simply being an autistic person has become increasingly more difficult. The message that we, and our children, are an inconvenience and need not be tolerated is becoming quite clear. There was a time when it was thought community was where you turned to when you needed assistance. The idea of reaching out--whether to your church, your school, or other community groups, seems more difficult for autistics each day.

Now, I will say, I look at things on both sides. In fact, prior to my experiences with my youngest, I may have agreed with the airline's position. I may have believed that kicking this mother and child off the flight was the only option. And to any who feel this way, I say walk a mile in our shoes. I have seen time and time again, the intolerance toward autistic people, and people with disabilities in general, is shameful. I am not surprised that this flight crew was forceful and abrupt, and that they did not attempt to work with this mom and her son. It was only a few weeks ago, that AutismVox wrote about an incident in the security line with her son. What more is needed, for society to become tolerant of our children? The sad truth is, most would prefer we keep our kids away.

With all this "autism awareness" everywhere, I ask you this: where is all the understanding? Does it matter that someone knows what autism is, or the figures 1 in 150, or that Jenny McCarthy "recovered" her son? No, obviously it doesn't. It's gotten us nowhere. Proper care is still very limited, we are still lacking in options for teen and adult autistics, services are frustratingly limited. Autistic children and adults are being abused and killed, as I wrote about recently. Autistic individuals, and their families, are discriminated against. All of the money raised in the name of "autism awareness," all the signs at Toys R Us, the pretzels, the CNN coverage...and where has that gotten any of us?

Another Senseless Tragedy...

People who prefer to find blame in vaccines, often look at us who embrace neurodiversity as being unrealistic. We even are accused of not having our children's best interests in mind. First and foremost, after years of studies continue to find no link between vaccines and autism, why is there still a debate? Why is anyone wasting their breath on this? All the money and media mention--for what?

Those who hold onto the hope of a cure for autism and support pouring millions into such research, also look at us in this same light. Let's be brutally honest here: there will never be a true "cure," not in the traditional sense of the word. What will come in the next several years, most likely, is a prenatal screening for well-documented "autism genes" or other markers for autism. Then, just like we've seen with Down Syndrome, pregnant women will be counseled to abort their fetus based on the positive autism test. A secondary "cure" would most likely be a combination of medications and supplements. There will never be a "magic pill" or procedure to "rid" someone of autism.

So, with all of that in mind, these same people continue to attack those on the ND side of things. We are called every name in the book. There is plenty of confusion as to what Neurodiversity means (as well as what Autism awareness should be), and what so many of us are fighting for. For me, and for most of the parents I know, we are fighting for better services for our children. We want programs created and funded now for teen and adult autistics. We demand better teacher training, employer seminars, first-responders' awareness on autism. We see a dire need for better options for autistics and their families: living arrangements, vocational and education programs, and so on. We also desire our children to be accepted by society, and at the very least tolerated in our communities. We want the world to embrace our child, and see all the gifts we see (for all our children, all over the spectrum).

Our concerns stem not only out of the love we have for our children, but from our fears that arise hearing about stories of abuse. Talk about intervention and treatments (that are respectful to autistics), yes. But how can any of us spend another minute blaming vaccines and promising cures, when our children are being abused, neglected, and killed?

Gabriel Poirier was nine years old when he was suffocated to death at his school. The details of his death are horrifying, and we yet to have all of the facts (like, why the teacher thought this was a viable option?). From The Gazette:

On April 17, Gabriel began to disturb his class with loud sounds. After being told repeatedly to calm down by a teacher, he was rolled in a weighted blanket. With his arms by his side, he was left on his stomach for over 20 minutes with only his toes exposed.

When the teacher went to check on him, he was "listless and blue in the face," the Coroner's report said. The teacher called 911 but the boy was already in a deep coma and passed away the next day in the Sainte-Justine hospital.

"He was a very gentle boy. Sometimes he was loud, but he was never aggressive or violent," Gilles Poirier, the boy's father, said today.

The parents' lawyer, Jean-Pierre Ménard, said vulnerable children like Gabriel need better protection.

"We're asking Minister Courchesne to implement a legal framework to regulate how these children are handled," Ménard said.

To think of how terrified Gabriel must have been as he gasped for breath, and the pain his parents are feeling--we cannot look the other way. My heart goes out to his family and friends. We must all learn from Gabriel's story, and not let his death be in vain. This is yet another wake-up call: our attitudes toward autism and autistics needs to change. What is it going to take to for all of us, autism parents and society, to come together and ensure such a tragedy never happens again?

In the words of Gabriel's father:

"Things, or action should be taken to prevent this, to never happen again."

For more information on how you can get involved, please visit these sites:

End Abuse of Children in Residential Programs: ACT TODAY!

APRAIS - The Alliance to Prevent Restraint, Aversive Interventions, and Seclusion

CAICA - Coalition Against Institutionalized Child Abuse

Accomodations vs. Exclusion

Sharon left a comment on this earlier post. This is her reply:

It's a double edge sword. It's great that AMC is accommodating.

But it sucks that we have to go to a "special" time because most people don't understand and are not willing to accept.

I think what she says is so true. I was hesitant to comment that my initial reaction about these "special move showings" was very mixed. I too think it's nice when businesses (as well as schools!) make accommodations, and this is no exception. There is a theater about 40 minutes away who also offers such showings. We've never gone, because of the drive. Also, for now, the 2-3 times per year we go to the movies, things have gone fine. I was startled reading this article, as my child has gotten up and danced around, jumped, scooted up and down the steps. So far, and I guess we are lucky, no one has complained. We try to go to shows that are less crowded, prepare my daughter ahead of time, and always have an aisle seat.

I suppose if my child were kicked out of a movie, I would drive the extra distance to the special showing. However, at the same time, I think I would take extreme issue with the theater. I would certainly let my views heard, to say the least. I have been in the movie with a baby crying (and not just for a second, I mean repeated crying, and this was in an R-rated movie). We all see the obvious "turn off your cell phones!" messages on the big screen--and yet, phones ringing is still an issue. Plenty of adults are annoying in the theater--critiquing each part or just talking aloud. In every children's movie I have gone to see, there's always been at least a couple of children speaking or whispering, laughing louder and longer, etc. The point is--whatever movie you are seeing, chances are there will be some distraction. You are in public, people. What do you expect?

It would be nice if the public wouldn't simply point at our children and say their behavior is unacceptable. It's a double-standard. If you truly cannot sit in a public theater and put up with some noise or distraction, then I suggest you stay home and rent a movie. The same goes for you if you are at a family restaurant (I'm talking about say Chili's, Friday's, etc. not Tavern On the Green!) and a child is "annoying" you. Stay home! If you go out into public, you must be tolerant of others, plain and simple.

One the flip side of that, I do appreciate special accommodations. My child happens to do fairly well in theaters, but I can see the benefit of lower sound, altered lighting, and no trailers. I can see this as being the only way for some families to attend the movies together. There is something to be said about being in a comfortable environment, where everyone understands your child. I know that when we get together with families from my daughter's special ed class, it seems to be an easier, more relaxed time. None of us need to explain or feel judged if our child behaves a certain way. No one stares if our child stims or has a meltdown. We've all "been there, done that." It is so nice to be with a group that you can relate to, and who relates to you. It feels safe, and I suspect our children feel the same way.

It would be nice if our children would all be accepted, and society would be more tolerant. I think, as messages like this come into the mainstream, we will get closer to that. For now, it seems like a nearly unattainable Utopia, and as such, our only option may be separate programs (in some cases) for our children. I do push strongly for inclusion, no doubt. But, I do see a place for special accommodations--even if that may mean exclusion some of the time.

Their own day at the movies...

By Karen Nitkin |Special To The Sun

It all started because Meaghan Ross wanted to dance.

Last summer, Meaghan's mother, Marianne Ross, took her to see the movie Hairspray. Because Meaghan has autism, and Marianne knows she can get excited during movies, she chose an early-in-the-day showing, when the theater would be nearly empty.

During the show, the Elkridge 8-year-old was so enchanted by the upbeat music and energetic dancing that she began to move her body. She wanted to dance in the aisles, but instead she was asked to leave the theater, her mother said.

"She got kicked out because she can't really sit still," said Ross. "She flaps her hands and gets really excited. ... I was just so upset when she was kicked out. She was just the picture of pure joy."

Pure joy--that's often how I describe my daughter in those moments. Those times when she is dancing, jumping, flapping, and giggling. I'd never think my child would get in trouble for being happy. Go figure.

Meaghan's mom was amazed that the AMC general manager agreed to her request: create a showing just for children with special needs. The first movie had 300 people in attendance, and they've had them monthly since November. The movies are at 9:30 in the morning, there are no trailers, and special care is taken with regard to the sound and lighting. AMC is considering adding this to other markets. I've heard of similar programs at other theaters. I think many of us can relate to what these parents have to say:

"It's just ... everybody understands," said Ross. Before the show starts, the lights are adjusted until "everybody is satisfied," she said. The sound is likewise adjusted, and during the movie, people often move around or talk. "Anything goes," she said. "We're all in the same boat."

"The world is so cruel to people who are different," said Michele Schwarzman. But at the AMC films, she said, "we can sit in the theater and nobody will comment."

This story was in the June 6, 2008 Baltimore Sun, you can read the complete article here.

End Abuse of Children in Residential Programs: ACT TODAY!

I received this from ASAN and wanted to spread the word. Please call your Representative and urge them to support and vote yes on H.R. 5876!

Grassroots Action Needed for Approaching Vote

June 10, 2008-After swift approval by the House Education and Labor Committee
on May 22, The "Stop Child Abuse in Residential Programs for Teens Act of 2008"
(H.R. 5876) appears headed to the House floor for a vote next week.

The bill is a welcomed response to thousands of allegations of child abuse and
neglect at private residential programs (therapeutic boarding schools, wilderness
camps, boot camps and behavior modification facilities) for teens with emotional,
behavioral or mental health needs, reported by the Governmental Accountability
Office (GAO).

Although some parents find such programs helpful, protections are needed
because too many children are being abused and nobody is watching. H. R. 5876
would make available information to help parents make informed choices about
their children's care in these placements.

H.R. 5876 was introduced on April 23 and is sponsored by committee chairman
George Miller (D-CA) and Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY). It would:

• Keep teens safe with new national standards for private residential programs.
• Prevent deceptive marketing by requiring disclosure to parents of qualifications,
  roles and responsibilities of current staff and of substantiated reports of child
  abuse or violations of health and safety laws. Programs would also have to
  provide a link to or web address for information on all private residential programs
  kept by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
• Hold teen residential programs accountable for violating the law by requiring
  HHS to conduct unannounced site inspections at least every two years.
  Civil penalties up to $50,000 would be levied for every violation of the law and
  parents would have a federal right to sue program operators that violate the
  national standards.
• Ask states to step in to protect teens in residential programs by providing grants
  to states that develop their own standards that are at least as strong as the
  national standards and inspect the programs in their state at least every two years.

Under Chairman Miller's leadership, this issue has garnered much-needed
attention. The Committee's website has links to testimony from an April 24
hearing, where the GAO and other experts testified and presented a follow-up
GAO report.

Please Act Today!

Urge your Representative to support H.R. 5876 today and to vote yes when
the bill is considered on the House floor.

• Call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask for your Representative's
  office. You can also call your Representative's direct lines, available on his
  or her website through www.thomas.gov/

Now is the time to end abuse and neglect in private residential programs that are
intended to help teens with behavioral, emotional and mental health problems.

Is Jenny Really An Autism Mom? (Part 2)

A Look At Auditory Processing, Allergies, and Autism:

Aside from, or in addition to, the possibility of epilepsy being the cause of developmental delays (and hence leading to a wrong diagnosis of autism) in Jenny's son, we can also look at auditory processing symptoms being similar to those of autism. In addition, a child suffering from food intolerances and/or allergies can have behavioral issues (or what looks like behavioral problems, from pain, discomfort, etc.). In recent interviews, Jenny has said her son continues to have some "auditory processing" issues.

More on Central Auditory Processing Disorder:

Early Signs & Symptoms:

* Difficulty following verbal directions.
* Echolalia (repeating back words and phrases without comprehension).
* Re-auditorization (repeating back what was heard, and then showing comprehension).
* A child who says "huh" or "what" and requires more repetitions of verbal input messages.
* Speech sound discrimination difficulties, especially in noise.
* Highly distractible/active.
* Unintelligible speech, but with adequate vocal inflection and gestures.
* Difficulty with memorizing names and places.
* Difficulty repeating words or numbers in sequence.
* May have speech or language "delays."

Nearly all of the CAPD symptoms can be seen in autistic children (specifically those with speech delays or language impairments), but again, there is more to the diagnostic criteria for autism than the symptoms listed for CAPD. Doctors really need to use caution when they throw out an "autism" diagnosis, especially when language and speech disorders can mirror symptoms of ASD's. I've seen this type of "warning" on speech apraxia websites, cautioning that there are some similarities with autism. So, is it possible that Jenny's son's proper diagnosis could be CAPD, with epilepsy?

With regard to allergies or food intolerances causing or worsening behavioral or psychiatric issues, we can look at this study (Untreated Celiac Disease and Development of Mental Disorders in Children and Adolescents):

The two adolescents described in these cases had suffered from episodes of major depression and other mental disorders before receiving a diagnosis of CD. The subject in case 2 had severe psychiatric symptoms years before adolescence. Soon after commencement of a gluten-free diet, coinciding with a decrease in circulating IgA antiendomysium and IgA antitransglutaminase antibodies, both youngsters considerably improved without any specific psychiatric treatment, and both remained in remission for at least 1.5 years of follow-up. Although the possible role of unrecognized psychosocial factors in explaining the remission cannot be excluded, it seems likely that in these cases major depression and severe behavioral problems, along with their improvement, were causally related to CD and its treatment with a gluten-free diet.

Since unrecognized CD may predispose the sufferer to serious mental disorders and behavioral problems, it should be taken into account in differential diagnosis in all age groups. The mechanisms involved in the etiology and pathogenesis of mental and behavioral disorders related to CD, and even to celiac-type gluten sensitivity, remain unresolved.

Certainly not direct proof of food intolerances (or in this case specifically Celiac Disease) can lead to or cause psychiatric disorders, but enough information to consider the possibility. So, again, if Jenny's son is a child with epilepsy (and associated delays) along with CAPD and/or food intolerances, all of that could add up to what looks like autism. It also would further explain this so-called "recovery" and why such improvement (apparently in speech and behavior) supposedly followed a switch to the GFCF diet (keep in mind, it may have been the epilepsy treatment helping the speech).

JUST MORE HYPOTHETICAL FOOD FOR THOUGHT...


*Disclaimer: I do not have any personal knowledge of Jenny McCarthy or her son's medical history, other than that made available to the public (via media outlets, et al). These are simply questions I feel worth raising, and ideas worth investigating.

Society's Sad State

I was reading Odd One Out in the days immediately following Alex Barton's reprehensible ousting from his first grade class (a la Survivor). I was so deeply affected by the post on this inexcusable act. Primarily on the comments that Lastcrazyhorn had compiled and was writing on. I was outraged and then very saddened by the bias and ignorance I was seeing. Suggestions like this child just needed some discipline, or that his behaviors were due to poor parenting, or commending this teacher for bringing order back into the classroom, honestly make me wonder what country we live in and exactly what year it is.

The case of Alex Barton has done two things. For one, it has brought Autism, inclusion and mainstreaming, and special education into the public eye (at least temporarily). All the major news stations covered the story in some form or fashion. Furthermore, the story has brought bloggers together all across the world. I've seen bloggers who have no connection to autism writing on it; others whom I have many disagreements with are just as passionate about this child's rights. It's been amazing to see us, once again, all come together to make change. We do have to remember that this is far from over--both for Alex and for the rest of our children. So, we need to keep writing those in the government and making our voices heard.

The other thing this case in particular has done is clearly brought forward how a great many in society truly feel about autistic individuals: put them away. The vast majority of us parents speak about how relieved we are to be living in a day where we do raise our children. Gone are the days that we are forced to (or strongly advised by our physicians and others we trusted) institutionalize our children (well, in most cases: please read about Nate Tseglin). However, it seems that a number of people would prefer we do just that. They don't want our kids interfering with their child's education. They speak of our kids as if they have some rancid, contagious disease. One that if our kids area allowed in their child's classroom, will seep through and infect the whole school. They claim it's unfair for their child to be in a room with our child. Unfair? Why? Because our child may help your child learn about tolerance and acceptance? Because they may learn to not judge a book by its cover, once they get to know our child? I'm sorry those lessons are so appalling to these parents.

I hate to break it to you who think my child will so horribly disrupt your child's education that she should be dumped somewhere else: my kid isn't the only one having issues in class. Have any of you spent time in a public school classroom? In Vanillaville, USA, you are going to see a SPECTRUM of children in any given room. You will have kids of varying intelligence and skill sets, children who have learning disabilities, health issues, and those that are gifted. You are going to have kids who are poor, kids who are rich, and all those in between. There are going to be adopted kids, foster kids, kids whose parents are divorced, and so on. You may want to point the finger at my child and say she is the one affecting your child's education--but really, can you prove that none of those other children do?

My oldest child is in fact labeled "gifted and talented" based on an evaluation (IQ score, plus various tests of knowledge and ability). She is in a classroom with children of varying abilities, and all those differences I mention above. Do I sit and whine that any of those kids is disrupting my kid's education? No. She is in public school, that's all part of it. She does have a few children in her classroom that receive special ed services. I've witnessed a meltdown by one of her peers, another child who is literally unable to sit still, and another who has significant trouble with reading. Shall I begin a protest to take these students out of my child's class? I would never. School should be a place where children learn to be good citizens. That is still a part of today's lesson plans, right? I want my daughter to acknowledge and accept children who are different from her. I don't want my daughter to judge a peer based on their skin color, family situation, physical appearance, or so-called "behaviors" ala Autism.

If you feel that my autistic child, or any other autistic, disabled, or different kid is so horribly affecting your child's education, guess what? You have a choice. Go to private school. I'm sure there are some better-suited schools out there--you know, ones where only blue-eyed, blonde-haired, strong, "neurotypical" children are accepted (I wonder if there are any schools who support a program like T4, that may be more your liking). People will say I'm crossing a line, that these views of society in 2008 are nothing like Hitler. I beg to differ. I think many would agree that if and when a prenatal genetic screening for autism is available, abortion will become common place, as in the case of Down Syndrome. We have professors speaking--and smiling--at universities, about eugenics.

This is the state of our society today. In this country, it is touted that we are the land of the free, and that each citizen has the same civil and human rights. This is not the case when it comes to disabled persons. What have we learned from history? Why are so many unwilling to give our children and autistic adults a shot? Why is there such intolerance and ignorance? It is my hope that through Alex Barton's horrible experience (and, sadly, many others) that a dialogue can begin. I want real change, for my child, for the many other individuals I've come to know on this journey. I can only hope that society is ready to listen.

Response to Comments: Alex Barton & Inclusion

I received this comment by Eric (you can watch the interview here):

"This child needs special attention for his disability- he should not be in a class room with children of a normal performing level. After reviewing the interview from "The Early Show" http://www.breitbart.tv/html/103693.html the child looks extremely disruptive and probably is a distraction in class. Placing those with disruptive disabilities in normal classrooms detracts from everyone else's education and occupies too much of the teachers time. The classroom is better off without him."

Yes, he does need special attention. His mother was meeting with school officials, this teacher included, to make such provisions. From what I understand, he had an IEP in place, and most likely a BIP (and if not, the school was indeed failing him well before Wendy Portillo's disgraceful actions). He should be in a class with "children of a normal performing level" (whatever that is in kindergarten!). For one, it is the law. Alex, just like my child, just like your child, has rights. You're not saying that autistic people don't deserve the same rights as other citizens, are you? Please read about Least Restrictive Environment, and perhaps you'll better understand why Alex deserves to be in this class. A side note, when you say "normal performing level," I wonder what that means. Are you talking about behavior, academics, or IQ? Odds are, Alex has a rather high IQ and is very capable of keeping up with (or soaring past even) his peers in academics (when the right supports are in place). What would be your definition of "normal performing level," do you have a specific criteria a child must meet before being allowed in a classroom?

I watched the interview. Can you tell me exactly which behaviors were so deplorable that Alex should not be in his classroom? You state he "looks extremely disruptive." Really? I can't imagine how my eldest (the gifted one, remember) would act in front of a camera. Actually, I bet she'd act out in ways I'd be mortified about! I don't even think I could get my youngest to sit on my lap or be anywhere near the camera crew and those spotlights (to which I greatly applaud Alex!). You can't base how a child acts, in front of bright lights with odd sounds and such. I personally did not see any behaviors indicative of Alex being a nuisance in class. Perhaps it's because I spend 24 hours a day with two very quirky kids, but I saw an inquisitive child. He didn't seem much different than any other child I've seen on T.V. while his parent is being interviewed.

With regard to the behaviors of this child in school, no one denies that Alex wasn't having difficulties. That is part of autism, at least for every autistic child I know. There are steps in place for schools to help a child with this. IEP's and BIP's help, as does open communication with teachers, counselors, and therapists. It sounds like not all was being done to help Alex, that could be done. I sincerely hope that now that he has an official diagnosis, steps will be taken to help him out. He may benefit from having a para or other support services.

How would you define "disruptive disabilities?" Is it just the autistic children? A child with ADHD? Does this include a child in a wheelchair? A child who stutters? The child with emotional issues due to their home life? I have actually seen so-called "neurotypical" children in the classroom be more "disruptive" (although I feel that word is rather harsh) than an autistic child. A child with ADHD may have a hard time focusing or sitting still. Yet, I don't think anyone would suggest placing a child with ADHD into a special education class. A child in a wheelchair may require more time going to and from the classroom, and certain class activities may need to be adjusted to accommodate his/her needs. The child who stutters will take longer to read a sentence aloud. A child with emotional issues may get into fights, may have trouble concentrating, may cry or act out. Would you argue as strongly for those children to be in a separate classroom as you do for Alex (and apparently all autistic children)? In any given classroom, there's plenty of distraction. It's not just Alex or my kid who may require more of the teacher's time on any given day.

The last sentence is the one that really felt like a punch in the gut. The idea that Alex's classroom or any other autistic kid's class is "better off without him" is so disturbing. It is the same barbaric mindset that once institutionalized our children, giving them no hope of any type of life, our kids were seen as having no value. This same senseless thinking leads to these very crimes, and disgusting preaching like this. This is why we fight, this is why we are so passionate, this is why we rally. Until society sees our children as human beings, as individuals with the same rights as anyone else, and accepts them for who they are, we will not be silent.

Another reply I received:

"anon So, lets see here, this little kid in Florida was being a t*rd and the rest of the kids voted him out of the class? whats the big deal? He's probably the same kid who gets picked last or doesnt get picked at all for any team sports. It's amusing to see the mothers cry out in harmonic outrage for their little precious bundles of stupid reject. Your kids are t*rds. Deal with it"

This comment deserves no response, and therefore I won't give it any justification. I do want to have it up here, just so that those people who may be unaware of what we, what our children, what autistic individuals, and what disabled citizens face day in and day out. These hateful, ignorant viewpoints are everywhere. Prejudice is very real in our world.

"I'm Not Special"

Those are the words that Alex Barton has come to say repeatedly to himself. He screams in the car when his mother drops his sister off at school. He's refusing to eat and unable to sleep in his own room. Alex was recently kicked out of his school, by his classmates--after his teacher took a vote on it. Alex is thought to have Autism (currently being evaluated for Asperger's). He is also just five years old, in kindergarten at Morningside Elementary in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Remember Kindergarten? That time of our lives when we are supposed to be taught to be good citizens, to learn social skills, to learn how to "get along," and how to obey the school rules. We're also supposed to have fun, play, and make new friends. Kindergarten is supposed to be the foundation upon which our next 12+ years of education will rest upon.

And yet, in Alex's classroom, the lessons being taught by Wendy Portillo appear to be ones of prejudice, intolerance, and outright cruelty. Alex's peers learned from their teacher that if someone is different, and you have a hard time understanding their habits, actions, delays, etc., then you simply dismiss them. Get rid of them. Kick them out. Take a vote, and out the classroom they go.

And, before you do, you might as well tell that person what you think of them. Five year old obscenities like "disgusting" and "annoying." This is brutality, no doubt. Melissa Barton (Alex's mother) reports that Wendy Portillo confirmed that this indeed happened. If that is the case, this teacher is cruel and inhuman, a person who has no business being in the education sector. She is teaching innocent, naive five year olds a lesson of hatred. A lesson that these children will not soon forget. We can only hope that these kindergarteners' parents have enough sense (and compassion) to explain to their children how wrong this is. It's far better to teach their children tolerance, acceptance, and understanding, and it's my wish they realize that.

If these reports have been confirmed, I see no reason why this teacher still has a job. She should have immediately been fired, no questions asked. One can't help but wonder--if this child wasn't autistic, what steps would the district would have taken? Had this been any other child in that classroom, all hell would have broke lose. There would have been protests, and no doubt, due to massive political pressure, this teacher would have received her walking papers STAT.

We've all seen how autism continues to be portrayed on television--as children who are violent, angry, withdrawn, and out of control, who were "kidnapped" or "lost their soul." The parents desperate and depressed, their lives "spiraling out of control." So, when the public hears that this child has autism, and was having "behavioral issues," most say "well, I can understand why you wouldn't want a kid like that in the classroom." They presume to know Alex all because of what they've seen or heard, these biased reports in the media. Society doesn't want to understand (let alone accept) autism or autistics--at any age. They're being constantly fed these ideas about recovery or a cure, not ever about the dignity or acceptance of autistic individuals. The message that those lives are not worthy of our respect or our time is what the public hears.

So again, when an autistic child is kicked out of class, they don't much care how or why it was done. They think nothing of the ramifications, not only on the autistic child, but also of the other children in that classroom. We are living in a culture of un-acceptance. We all must fit into the public's cookie-cutter mold, or we are just not good enough to be an equal member. Our society likes to preach a lot about being diverse, and about supporting those with disabilities. Yet, when it comes down to it, in the real day to day stuff, society would rather look the other way.

When people ask me why I cringe at a celebrity bragging about her "recovered" child or a politician working to "prevent and cure anything along the Autism Spectrum" or a grandmother declaring that "Autism knocked on the wrong door," I don't need to look far for my reasons. The case of Alex Barton clearly shows us that this propaganda reaches far and wide, not only into our homes, but even into our schools and churches. I want the Barton family to know that they have my full support, along with many others. I was grateful to read this, and learn that Alex's mother, Melissa Barton is a very strong woman, who will not let this slide:

“He has many of the symptoms of Aspergers” says his mother. “The teacher knew that he was under evaluation even having a part-time assistant just for Alex, and she decided that the best way to handle him would be through humiliation from his peers. I cannot imagine how he must have felt as his teacher encouraged the other students to bully Alex by telling him he is disgusting and they do not like him among other things. This is abuse and discrimination among other things; I will not soon let this go” says Melissa Barton. “The moment he needed me the most, I was at work. I do not know if he will ever trust teachers again, I do not know if I will ever trust the Port St Lucie School District again. I know it will be a while before I can convince my little boy that learning is fun. I am deeply sorrowed by the pain my child suffered at the hands of his Port St Lucie school teacher.”

Mrs.. Barton went on to say, “This is a sad day for parents of disabled children across the USA. I am now seeking the help of a physiatrist for my son as he refuses to eat, sleep in his own room and other problems that arrived directly after the abuse."

Make your voice heard, tell the Port St. Lucie school district that this type of discrimination and hatred will not be tolerated.

CONTACT INFO:

Morningside Elementary School Principal:
Mrs. Marcia Cully
cullym@stlucie.k12.fl.us
(772) 337-6730

St. Lucie County Schools Superintendent:
Michael J. Lannon
4204 Okeechobee Road
Ft. Pierce, FL 34947-5414
Phone: 772/429-3925
FAX: 772/429-3916
lannonm@stlucie.k12.fl.us

St. Lucie County School Board Chair:
Carol Hilson
772-519-0397
hilsonc@stlucie.k12.fl.us

Vice Chair:
Judith Miller
772-528-4545
millerj@stlucie.k12.fl.us


The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is asking all those who write to express their outrage to cc: info@autisticadvocacy.org so that ASAN can keep track of the strength and sources of the response. They also advise us to be mindful that abusive messages hurt our cause--please be respectful in your comments.

A special thanks to Bev at Asperger Square 8 for bringing this to my attention.
Others who have blogged on this:
ballastexistenz
Whose Planet Is It Anyway?
Whitterer on Autism
Maternal Instincts
The Joy of Autism
LeftBrain/RightBrain
Action For Autism
Along the Spectrum