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17. The Right to Communication with Darlene Hanson

Darlene Hanson's Bio

Kindred Communication

In this episode, Darlene takes us deep into the idea of the right to communication and what that means in terms of controversial AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) methods. She directs listeners to the understanding of communication as a right, and that prohibiting these strategies is, in effect, denying people their right to communication, which is an ADA violation.  Darlene distinguishes between the more commonly known strategies of facilitated communication, Rapid Prompting Method, and Spelling to Communicate. And she gives practical tips for how to engage with someone from a "presumption of competence" perspective. I personally LOVE this episode so much. I hope that it inspires many people toward inclusivity in communication!

 

Links and People Mentioned  

Kindred Communication

Go Kindred App

Wellspring Guild - to learn more about facilitated communication

Halo Foundation - to learn more about Rapid Prompting Method & Soma Mukhoppadhyay

Growing Kids - to learn more about Spelling to Communicate & Elizabeth Vosseller

Movement Differences and Diversity in Autism... - Anne Donnellan & Martha Leary

 

Related Links and People 

Books Written by Non-Speaking Autistic People:

Anatomy of Autism by Diego Peña

I am Intelligent: From Heartbreak to Healing - A Mother and Daughter's Journey Through Autism by Peyton and Dianne Goddard

The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism by Naoki Higashida

Films About Non-Speaking Autistic People Who Type:

Wretches & Jabberers

Deej

 

Stay Connected with Diana

Diana's Website

Free Resource - 5 Keys to Going Beyond Awareness 

Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity in K-12 Schools & Communities - Diana's Book

Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights - Diana's Children's Book

"Beyond Awareness" Digital Course

Diana's TEDx Talk

Beyond Awareness Facebook Page

Diana on Instagram

Beyond Awareness Tote Bag 

Beyond Awareness Pullover Hoodie

Beyond Awareness Raglan Baseball T-Shirt