It is interesting to note that public participation is encouraged at these American events. In some cases American law requires public input. They do not appear to dictate who can and can not attend. Nor do they attempt to pass off government selected delegates as representatives of community organizations as is currently occurring in Canada with the CIHR Autism Symposium. Here in Canada, the CIHR has bypassed community organizations like the Autism Society New Brunswick and decided for itself who will represent community organizations at this event.
A little tip for the esteemed scientists at the CIHR from a humble small town lawyer, father of a profoundly autistic boy and long time autism advocate. In democratic societies organizations select their own representatives. Government bureaucrats, even those with Ph. D.'s, their Public Relations advisers, and their Political superiors, do not decide who represents community and other organizations. And they do not try to control the discussion that takes place at the symposium by professional "facilitators".
County to hold symposium on autism on Oct. 20
Goshen — The Orange County Department of Mental Health’s Developmental Disabilities Division is working in partnership with the Orange-Ulster Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) to sponsor a major education and awareness event on Oct. 20 titled “Autism in Orange County - A Symposium and Exposition for Our Community.” This announcement was made by Orange County Executive Edward A. Diana and Commissioner of Mental Health Chris Ashman. .... Diana encourages all persons with an interest in autism to plan to attend the October conference ...
From the bulletin board section of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Chippewa-- A free autism symposium will begin at 6:30 tonight at Blackhawk High School, 500 Blackhawk Road. Speakers include those in government and education. There will be displays about related community resources. The event is sponsored by state Rep. Jim Marshal (R-Big Beaver).
A symposium that will focus on enhancing the lives of people with disabilities will be held Oct. 25 in Sioux Falls.
The GreenSTAR Symposium will offer a community forum to discuss educational opportunities and to exchange ideas, organizers said.
It will be held at the Sioux Falls Convention Center and is open to people with disabilities, their families, professionals who serve people with disabilities, and businesses and organizations who employ people with disabilities. The public also is invited.
Dick Hoyt is the keynote speaker. He and his son, Rick, who was born with multiple disabilities, are nationally known for running marathons and triathlons together.
Workshop sessions will focus on autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, guardianship, special needs trusts, and rehabilitation, among others.
RUTLAND - The Vermont Agency of Human Services and the Department of Education will host a public forum on Autism Spectrum Disorders to gather public input for developing a plan to provide services to individuals with autism spectrum disorders in their homes, schools and communities.
Interested parties are invited to attend a meeting scheduled on Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Asa Bloomer State Office Building, Room 266, 88 Merchants Row, in Rutland. The building is wheelchair accessible, but if other accommodations are needed, call 802-241-4534.
Public input is a requisite of Act 35, an Act relating to Autism Spectrum Disorders, passed by the 2007 Vermont Legislature. If unable to attend written input may be sent to: Autism Specialist, DAIL, 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05676.
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