This September, the Autism Society knows that the importance of the 2020 U.S. election cannot be understated, no matter which side of the isle you’re on. That’s why our September 2020 Toolkit focuses on the initiation of our voter registration campaign, designed to encourage eligible individuals in the disability community to vote in the upcoming election.

Our goal this month is to provide the autism community with the resources necessary to navigate the 2020 Election year in the wake of COVID-19. Additionally, the September toolkit provides more back-to-school resources for various COVID-19 education models, as well as parent checklists.

2020 Election Resources

Voting Information

• Autism Society’s Legislative Goals (brochure available for print)

• Autism Society Policy Agenda

• Absentee Voting Information: an option to vote from your home and mail in the ballot. Find information on absentee voting for your state at the Election Center.

• SARTAC (Self-Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center): opportunity for self-advocates to develop and grow their skills as leaders in the self-advocate movement

• ASAN: A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Voting in the U.S. Toolkit focusing on the process of voting and understanding how to prepare to vote on Election Day.

Back-To School Resources

• Back to School: Know Your Rights by the Autism Society of America
• Consortium for Citizen’s with Disabilities Principles for School Reopening

• Facebook Live Special: “Back to School: A Global Discussion Support Students with Autism“

• Autism Society’s Coronavirus Information Series: Preparing your IEP for Back to School featuring Anne Holmes of MyHana

• Ignite Public Policy Newsletter: Information on Schools Reopening and Legislation

• National Disability Rights Network State by State Reopening Plan Compilation

• State Advocacy Toolkit – Updated for September 2020

Affiliate Highlights

Autism Society of Alabama‘s “Take and Make” for parents, supplying teachers with visual aids, hands-on educational and sensory items.

Autism Society Coachella Valley’s “Bring Back the 90s” Music Bing (and Dance Party) Virtual Fundraiser

Autism Society of Northern Virginia’s Presidential Candidate Forum: Biden Campaign, discussing Biden’s disability platform

Collaboration: Autism Society Howard County & Autism Society Baltimore are hosting a joint event, Every Step Counts Autism Walk and 5K Run

We encourage you to contact the Autism Society affiliate in your area, as our affiliates are often the most knowledgeable about local services. To find an affiliate in your area, click here.

The Autism Society’s National Contact Center staff are here to support you and provide you with the resources you need. Our Information & Referral Specialists are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 800-3-AUTISM (800-328-8476) or info@autism-society.org.

The Autism Society is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all affected by autism. $50 allows the Autism Society to provide an hour of support to our affiliate network to create localized education resources, support, and advocacy to individuals and families affected by autism. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting our efforts through a donation, every bit helps. Donate here!