On a very cold day in Minnesota, Dr King’s life and accomplishments were celebrated throughout the country and our state of Minnesota.
A week or so prior to Jan 21, 2013, I received a phone call from Council of Black Minnesotans who said they were going to nominate me to the Governors MLK Commission as a person that made a difference for minorities in Minnesota especially autism. At first, I thought Rebecca from the CBM was kidding or this was April fools day joke that came in early. Because I am just a rookie autism advocate mom that is frustrated – but made a difference, hardly.
Lone behold, CBM (Council of Black Minnesotans) calls me again and said I am one of 9 folks that will get the MLK award in Jan 21, 2013 which included Kevin Lindsey, Commissioner of Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Now what now – was my first reaction.
Here we are on Jan 25, 2013 and I am writing this blog to explain my disbelief and gratefulness. I am so delighted and really humbled by this honor. I am very thankful to Governor Dayton’s Commission for selecting me. I feel even more responsibility and a sense of urgency now to keep advocating and marching on for fairness, equality, and access for autism therapies and services for all especially low income and minority autism children/families.
Note; CBM now has a new director Edward McDonald appointed recently by Governor Dayton who I truly admire and respect. I think he is a man of character and a backbone that will finally turn the tide in addressing the endless disparities in Minnesota for people of color from health, to education to economic opportunities. This guy rocks!
I thank everyone that has supported our autism cause and continues to support us.
God Bless!
Idil – Somali Autism Mom