In The Politics of Autism, I examine the role of social media in the development of the issue. Social media can spread vaccine disinformation, but they can also provide autistic people and their families with a way to connect with one another and to press for government action.
Twice-exceptional parents are not the first to take advantage of online connection, offering support and information to those hungry for it, and even driving state and national-level change. The advocacy group Decoding Dyslexia, for example, grew out of social media and now has branches in all 50 states, 42 of which have passed dyslexia-specific laws.
Robbi Cooper, a parent involved in policy and advocacy at Decoding Dyslexia Texas, says that social media connects advocates involved in various parts of the legislative process and builds support from lawmakers and administrators.
"Social media allows the door to open when the door's not locked. If the door is locked, then they won't let you in—but that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do," Cooper said, indicating that continued growth and research can serve as the key. "Once they start listening to you and start taking you seriously, then they unlock the door."
