The theme of the Autism Society Alberta Alliance 2019 Conference was “A Call to Action.” We were pleased to report that the conference was very successful. The event provided a well organized opportunity for over two hundred key people from across Alberta to discuss issues of crucial importance, gain consensus on priorities, identify opportunities, build traction on strategies, agree upon specific, tangible initiatives. It has united stakeholders from across Alberta, inspiring them to take responsibility for their challenging situation.
Alberta’s Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) community is clearly perceiving the need to take charge of its own concerns, become better organized and more vocal. With this growing confidence it will be possible to establish working groups to address the key issues that were defined at the conference, set forth action plans, and continue acting for change in the future.
The ASD community in Alberta has the right to determine and develop priorities and strategies for exercising its right to development. This event is a prime example of its proactive approach to determining and developing the programs, facilities and initiatives it needs, including complex case care, housing and independent living, and family advocacy.
The purpose of this report is not only to submit findings and recommendations regarding the event itself, but to give voice to the people involved in the event. For this reason, we are conveying the conversation; we recorded the entire event, transcribed everything that was said, and included quotes in the report from many stakeholders. We hope readers will benefit from wisdom articulated by organizers, presenters, panelists, small groups and other attendees during and after the event. This report will also help to inform future efforts to fulfill the interests of the ASD community, its partners and stakeholders across Alberta, including the formation of working groups.
As an expression of different perspectives, this report includes many quotes taken from the transcripts of the sessions. It also provides an overview and copies of key content presented during the program; findings and recommendations for the ASD community and other stakeholders.
