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Autistics United (AU) Canada is a grassroots advocacy organization by and for Autistic people in what is colonially known as Canada. Our first chapter was founded in 2014, as Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) Vancouver. Autistics United Canada was later established out of ASAN chapters based in Canada in 2017, with now five chapters in Vancouver (Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Territory), Comox Valley (K'ómoks Territory), Fort McMurray (Cree, Dene, Dane-zaa Territory and Homeland of the Métis Nation), Manitoba (Anishnaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene Territory, and Homeland of the Métis Nation), and Nova Scotia (Wabanaki Confederacy and Mi’kmaq Territory), as well as a network of autistic self-advocates across the country. AU Canada has worked hard to promote the inclusion of Autistic people in the conversations and decisions that affect our lives. All our leadership positions are held by Autistic people, reflecting our core value: “Nothing About Us, Without Us!” AU Canada is also about building connections in the Autistic community and fostering a strong sense of Autistic identity and pride. We prioritize equity, inclusion, collaboration, autonomy, and self-determination. Our community is diverse and our approach is intersectional. AU Canada is member organization of the Autistic Advocacy Coalition of Canada and an international affiliate of the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network. |