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Autism Alliance of Canada’s Advocacy at the United Nations

  1. International Autism Policy Initiative

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is an international human rights treaty that promotes and protects the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

As an advocate for the rights of Autistic people, Autism Alliance of Canada has become involved in United Nations conferences and events, aimed at enhancing the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in countries across the world.

Guidelines on Deinstitutionalization

In 2021, the United Nations Convention conducted online consultations to gather insights for drafting Guidelines on Deinstitutionalization, including in emergencies. During the Caribbean and North American Regional Consultations on June 8, 2021, the Autism Alliance of Canada’s Board Members – Maddy Dever, Rebekah Kintzinger, and Corey Walker – shared their perspectives on COVID-19’s impact on institutionalization and deinstitutionalization alongside fellow self-advocates and disability organizations from the region.

Looking at National Autism Strategies through the lens of the CRPD

On June 15, 2023, Autism Alliance of Canada and Kids Brain Health Network hosted a Side Event at the United Nations’ 16th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The Side Event aimed to create an inclusive platform for exploring the challenges and successes of countries in developing and implementing rights-based autism policies.

We are honored to amplify the perspectives and experiences of Autistic people at the United Nations. Such inclusivity and empowerment drive positive outcomes for the global Autistic community. Together, we strive for a future where each Autistic person is valued and celebrated.

Dr. Deepa Singal

Dr. Deepa Singal
Scientific Director of Autism Alliance of Canada

Resources and Outputs

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Statement for the Online Regional Consultations with the CRPD

During the Caribbean and North American Regional Consultations on June 8, 2021, the Autism Alliance of Canada’s Board Members – Maddy Dever, Rebekah Kintzinger, and Corey Walker – shared their perspectives on COVID-19’s impact on institutionalization and deinstitutionalization alongside fellow self-advocates and disability organizations from the region.

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As a member of Autism Alliance of Canada, you will contribute to enhancing our impact through a strong, unified, collaborative voice.