For centuries, as individuals and as a group auties have faced daily challenges, prejudices, and been shunned by much of society. However, through the hybridity and diversity of the Internet a strong, independent, and supportive autism culture has emerged. These self proclaimed “people from another planet” have bonded through various media means including Twitter, Facebook, blogs, websites, and have several Autie Networks for communication, entertainment, work, and business.
One of the most predominant online autie communities is WrongPlanet.net. The creator Alex Plank developed the website in 2003 after being diagnosed with Asperger’s.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/01aznVGBB3c?t=5m17s[/youtube]
Since his speaking engagement the site has gained more than 70,000 registered members (including me). It is for individuals with autism and is involved in autistic self advocacy with the goal of furthering the rights of autistic individuals. The site includes a chat-room a large forum, a dating section, and a television show hosted by auties. Also included are links to articles, books, blogs, speakers, Facebook, twitter,and a store with hundreds of novelty items.
Autism Network International (ANI) provides a forum for autistic people to share information, peer support, and tips for coping and problem-solving. It offers online classes and workshops for certificates in, Advocacy, Autistic Living, and Professional Development. Also available to members are annual or by annual “Autreats” in autistic friendly environments.
Autreats are synonymous with retreat in the context of organized activities, withdrawing from ones’ usual environment for the purpose of reflection, bonding with like minded others, setting goals and objectives for the future. Much like any other social or community group retreat they are well organized, and attendees must strictly adhere to the Autreat protocols.
You may be wondering what Autreat protocols cover. The list is quite extensive but privacy, respecting personal space, asking for permission to speak, touch, or be in close proximity of another person are considered common courtesy for people at the retreat.
I chose WrongPlanet.net (WP) and Autism Network International (ANI) because they are prevalent on the Internet, autistic-run, and advocate for autism as a way of being rather than a disorder or disease. I included the following site with my research because I believe it is the first step toward entering the autism Internet culture. Most children learn about computers by first playing games.
ZAC Browser is designed to be educational, engaging, and rewarding for young people with autism. It has versions PC, Mac, Android, and iPad. The programs it teaches children with autism how to interact with technology and people through computers while respecting their proclivity for repetitive and restricted patterns, interests.