On May 10, 2022, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) released the Assessment on Autism report: “Autism in Canada: Considerations for future public policy development.“
We are encouraged to see that the complex issues faced by Autistic people in Canada and their families are raised in this report. Findings in this report are aligned with the issues that we and our members have been advocating for over the past decade. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with the federal government to act on the report to expedite the development of an impactful National Autism Strategy for Autistic people, their families, and those who support them. Stay tuned as we announce opportunities for how our members can take action.
Dr. Deepa Singal, CASDA’s Director of Scientific and Data Initiatives, on CTV
On May 10, 2022, Dr. Deepa Singal, CASDA’s Director of Scientific and Data initiatives, was interviewed by Heather Butts of CTV National News to weigh in on the release of the CAHS Assessment on Autism. Click here to read the full article.
Click here to watch the video of this story.
How you can take part in conversations around a National Autism Strategy
There are a variety of ways by which members of CASDA can get involved:
1. Make sure to renew your CASDA Membership. CASDA membership is open to both individuals and organizations, where vast and diverse experience, expertise and voices come together for the shared and common purpose to advocate and amplify the development and implementation of a National Autism Strategy. There is still more work to do, so make sure to stay connected by renewing your membership with us by clicking here.
2. Participate in policy working groups and focus groups. Throughout the year, CASDA, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, organizes discussion groups, inviting participants across the country to share their perspectives on policy gaps or issues that impact them. All are welcome. This summer, you are invited to participate in the Policy Development Working Group on Accessibility, Developmental Disabilities, and Employment. Stay tuned for other projects to launch, such as opportunities with the KBHN-CASDA Policy Fellows, and Examining Criminal (In)Justice Across the Autism Spectrum.
3. Attend the Canadian Autism Leadership Summit (CALS) in April 2023.
4. Advocate with a strong, collaborative, collective voice. Whether you wish to deepen your knowledge of current issues faced by Autistic people in Canada or want to review policy recommendations, keep an eye on our website to get the latest news!
5. Collaborate with us. If you have a project or idea in mind and would like to collaborate with CASDA, you can email CASDA staff directly at info@casda.ca.
