New ASAN Chapter at Ohio State University in Columbus, OH

aneeman · Tufted Titmouse Joined: Apr 13, 2009 Posts: 32

The Ohio State University chapter of the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network will be holding its first meeting on Thursday, April 30 at 5:45pm at the campus Barnes & Noble/Long's Cafe. We will meet in the coffee shop area on the first floor. OSU students, faculty, staff, and community members are welcome to attend!

The Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) is a non-profit organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN's supporters include autistic adults and youth, those with other distinct neurological types, and neurotypical family members, professionals, educators, and friends. ASAN provides support and services to individuals on the autism spectrum. ASAN also works to change public perception and to combat misinformation by educating communities about persons on the autism spectrum. Our activities include public policy advocacy, community engagement to encourage inclusion and respect for neurodiversity, quality of life oriented research, and the development of autistic cultural activities and other opportunities for autistic people.

During our first OSU-ASAN meeting, we will devise a plan of action for the remainder of this school year and for the beginning of next year. Some talking points include: obtaining official approval from Student Activities, starting a campus-wide conversation on neurodiversity and autistic representation, advertising our organization, and considering possible campus events. Additionally, we hope that this meeting (and future events) will help connect advocates for neurological diversity with one another.

Please contact asan.ohiostate(@)gmail(dot)com with any questions.

Directions: Barnes & Noble/Long's is located at 1598 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201 at the campus gateway. Paid parking is available in the parking garage at a rate of $1 per hour. Metered street parking is also available. B&N is also accessible from the following bus routes: #2, #8, #18, #31, #54, #84.