At Autism Alliance of Canada, we believe that language shapes culture. The words we choose have the power to either reinforce stigma or dismantle it, to either exclude or welcome, to either silence or empower.
That’s why we take language seriously. We are conscious and intentional in how we talk about Autism and Autistic people, because language is never neutral — it reflects how we see one another and what we believe is possible. The language used around disability, Autism, and community inclusion is often a mirror of broader attitudes. When that language is careless or outdated, it can unintentionally contribute to exclusion, misunderstanding, and harm.
But it’s not just about being “politically correct.” It’s about being respectful, affirming, and human. The way we speak about Autistic people shapes how society treats Autistic people — in policy, in practice, and in personal interactions.We also recognize that language is always evolving and that none of us get it right all the time. Sometimes language used at summits like this may not reflect the most affirming or inclusive choices. When that happens, what matters most is how we respond. We encourage everyone here to approach these moments with:
- Stay curious, not critical
- Focus on learning and growing, not blaming or shaming
- Choose compassion over perfection
This is about moving forward together. When we are open to feedback and willing to shift our language, we show that we are listening. We show that we care. We show that Autistic people, and all disabled people, deserve to be at the center of conversations about their own lives.
This is the standard we hold ourselves to at Autism Alliance of Canada — and we invite you to hold it with us.