Paula Kluth, John Hussman, Beret Strong, & John Tweedy (2009) 28 minutes

In this revealing documentary, you will meet Barbara, Stephen, Kathy, Jamie, Sue & Jenn, six adults with autism labels.  They address questions such as 'What is autism?'; 'What is good about autism?', 'What is hard about autism?'; and 'What is support?' and provide answers that are touching, revealing, and often unexpected.  These six individuals communicate in compelling and often humorous ways their views on issues ranging from sensory problems, to communication needs, to the celebration of special interests.  

The purpose of this film is to communicate a message about personal power, agency, and voice.  Too often, in the fields of autism and disability, we look only to the medical, teaching, or theraputic communitites for answers, insight,and guidance.  These individuals and their powerful words illustrate why the 'autism experts' we need to listen to and learn from, above all others, are those who live with the autism label.

Reviews

"These first person accounts provide a window into the lives of those affected by autism.  We applaud this rich portrayal of the diversity, creativity, and insightfulness of people with autism, and hope that it will promote understanding and further research and support for the autism community."

-Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter

"This is the single most powerful film on ASD (autism spectrum disorders) to date.  Any and all autism workshops or university courses (when led by neurotypicals) should begin and end with this film.  For those committed to self-determination and self-advocacy in the disability field, this film allows you to walk the talk... Take 30 minutes of your life and experience a truer understanding of autism.  Watch this video!"

-Michael McSheehan, Institute on Disability, University of New Hampshire

"Understanding autism MUST begin with the authentic voices of those on the spectrum.  (This film) features noted self-advocate leaders providing information, insights, philosophies and perspectives about their lives, opening the doors of understanding about needed supports.  Professionals, family members and self-advocates should note that there has not been another film quite like this before- a must see!"

-Patrick Schwartz, Ph.D., Professor, Diversity in Learning & Teaching Department, National-Louis University, Chicago