Advocate

Advocating for policies and programs in support of individuals and families with autism

Group of advocates standing on the steps of the Capitol

Join our grassroots advocacy network

Become part of a community of advocates who raise awareness for autism policy issues, communicate with elected officials, contribute to local events, engage other volunteers, and support positive change.

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Autism Speaks influences policy at the state and federal government levels. To do this, we work with Congress, the White House, state legislators, agencies, and regulators. 

Our advocacy protects the rights, services, and supports of people with autism. 

Autism Speaks policy areas 

We work on a range of policy issues that address the needs of people with autism. 

  • Science and research 
  • Healthcare and insurance 
  • Housing and related supports 
  • Education 
  • Employment 
  • Other services 

Capitol Hill, Washington, DC

Federal advocacy

Virginia State Capitol

State advocacy

Hill Day steps

Advocate with us

Learn more about Autism Speaks' advocacy priorities

Advocacy news

A school classroom full of students sitting at their desks with the teacher at the front of the class.
4.3.25

IDEA Full Funding Act reintroduced in Congress
This bipartisan bill creates a clear and accountable path for the federal government to meet its funding commitment to students with autism and other
Walkway lined with blooming cherry blossoms, leading up to US Capitol
4.3.25

New bills introduced in Congress would increase financial security and caregiver support for the autism community
Autism Speaks is proud to support three bills that aim to empower people with autism and their caregivers.
"POLICY PULSE" on two lines with color gradient of navy to aqua
3.31.25

Policy Pulse | Cherry blossoms bloom while budgets loom
This newsletter edition highlights the importance of Medicaid funding and shares an update from Capitol Hill, recent state advocacy developments, and
Joe and DSP molding clay
3.31.25

With Medicaid funding at risk, Laura’s message is clear – “It’s time to mobilize”
CEO of Community Support Services shares about the importance of developmental disability (DD) services, her staff and people they serve, and
"POLICY PULSE" on two lines with color gradient of navy to aqua
3.3.25

Policy Pulse | What's new in autism advocacy? A lot!
This 2025 newsletter edition shares the inspiring story of a parent advocate, new bills introduced in Congress, and state advocates rallying for
Large group of advocates standing on a black and white checkered floor in the capitol atrium
2.14.25

Autism Speaks honors Virginia legislators for leadership on behalf of the autism community

During Virginia Autism Advocacy Day at the state capitol, several lawmakers were awarded a 2024 Autism Speaks Public Service Award for their
Read more advocacy news

Take action

Meet the advocates making a difference across the country

Juan and Guarionex sitting next to each other outside
Juan D., a proud father inspired by his son's ambition
Autism is not a one-size situation. This affects everyone regardless of status, race, and political party.
Read Juan D., a proud father inspired by his son's ambition's Story
Cidmarie and a child smiling
Cidmarie V., following a lifelong calling to support students with autism and other disabilities
We must understand that the world is filled with people from all walks of life, with different abilities, and different ethnicities for a reason and that is so that we can learn from one another.
Read Cidmarie V., following a lifelong calling to support students with autism and other disabilities's Story
Kimacka and family at a Black Autism Support event
Kimacka R., empowering Black autism communities to break down barriers
My hope is that they are given the opportunity to be great, are surrounded by real friends, and never question that they are amazing and that they matter.
Read Kimacka R., empowering Black autism communities to break down barriers's Story
Bin and Vincent Feng sitting next to each other outside
Bin F., a leader and champion for the Chinese-American autism community
We all share the same goal: let our loved ones with autism live their full potentials.
Read Bin F., a leader and champion for the Chinese-American autism community's Story
Saida M standing on Capitol steps at 2023 Advocacy Forum in DC
Saida M., an advocate helping the next generation of girls growing up on the autism spectrum
I want to also be remembered for being the voice for those who are voiceless 
Read Saida M., an advocate helping the next generation of girls growing up on the autism spectrum's Story
A mom and a son smile at the camera in blue autism shirts on a sunny day
Elizabeth
I feel like I have a responsibility to help people with autism and their families to try to make the world a better place.”
Read Elizabeth 's Story
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