First, let me be clear that this blog and these are words are solely mine and do not represent the Minn autism task force.
Alright, so every since last night’s very interesting in a intimidating kind of way – I have really been thinking out-loud as why so many people here in this state have so much resistance to simple equality in autism policies.
Sen Eaton who represents a heavily African American suburban district said something that made me think out-loud. Sen Eaton said she finds some of my words in my blog “offensive”. She also probably found my testimonies against her wealthier upper/middle class autism coverage the same way.
So, I started thinking out-loud.
Dear Senator Eaton, while I thank you for your opinion, if I were you what I would find offensive is your autism policies for only the wealthier most likely non-minority autism coverage whereby you only wanted to get the state pay for tens of millions of dollars for their children’s early intervention ABA therapy. By the same-token you did not introduce similar bill for the low income autism family. In fact, you did not even ask one single minority autism agency or parent testify for your legislation. What do you think that says to your voters in your district?
The sad irony is this bill was for mostly people who were not your voters. The ones who put you in office were sadly sidelined and neglected by this legislation and coverage.
If I were you, I would also find offensive the fact that there is so much autism disparity and even in more general mental health for communities of color which you had some bills talking about that. Yet, you neglected to connect with mental health agencies that represent communities of color.
I guess my question would be if you really wanted to know the feeeeeel of the weather in Miami then you talk to someone from Miami.
I keep referring to the Self Autistic’s fantastic logo of NOTHING ABOUT US, FOR US, WITHOUT US. Imagine if so many Minnesota state legislatures learned and understood that lesson. When writing legislations or bills that will affect whatever issue – it might be best to actually talk to the communities and people it is affecting. It will save you so much debate and headache – I assure you.
At any rate, Sen Eaton is coming back in 2016 for another minority vote in her district, we need to take count on her legislations, her ability to speak on our behalf and pass bills and policies that actually made that district better. Otherwise, voting for Sen Eaton again will like like milking your camel on a beautiful sandy beach. Worthless!
Please think about that to my fellow minority especially those that live in this district because we can’t just complain about state legislatures if we are not willing to hold them accountable to their votes and policies.
God Bless!
Idil – Somali Autism Mom