Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM)

For more than 50 years, the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) has been Minnesota’s First Autism Resource. As we face increased discrimination against the autistic community, our advocacy work is more important than ever. From advising legislators on policy at the Minnesota Capitol to fighting misinformation at every level, AuSM is advocating with, for, and alongside our community. 

With the surge of attacks on the autism community, fighting for the human rights of people with disabilities can feel very political. AuSM serves the whole state and the whole spectrum, working as a non-partisan organization with allies on both sides of the aisle to create better conditions for everyone in our community.  

Together, we are fighting to:

• Promote autism acceptance and accurate information – we know that neither vaccines nor Tylenol cause autism, and spreading misinformation only increases stigma

• Protect and preserve Medicaid, which so many people with disabilities rely on to survive

• Abolish seclusion and restraint in schools – children in our community deserve support, not isolation and harm

• Ensure access to home and community-based services – we know that undermining access to community restricts choice and agency

• Resist institutionalization – autistic people belong in our communities, living full thriving lives

• End subminimum wage in Minnesota – pay workers with disabilities fair wages 

We are fighting through policy and awareness, by bringing our voices to the Capitol and everywhere people are affected by autism. Because we know our community is strongest when every voice is heard and valued. 

What Our Community Believes

• We believe that understanding and acceptance change lives. 
• We believe that autism is a natural part of human diversity. 
• We believe autistic people deserve to live in a world that recognizes their strengths and supports their needs. 
• We believe no one should face stigma, shame, or misinformation about who they are. 
• We believe our communities grow stronger when we celebrate interdependence by supporting each other.
• We believe in centering the leadership of autistic people.
• We believe in real supports that allow all autistic people to flourish. 

The Autism Society of Minnesota is guided by the belief that our collective strength and our shared humanity make life better for all Minnesotans, and that the best Minnesota is one in which autistic people are included, supported, and celebrated. 

We know that real change happens when community members, autistic and non-autistic, show up for one another. When we fight together, we create a future that holds all of us. 

Join Us

At AuSM, we advocate every day for a Minnesota where autistic people and families have what they need to thrive.  

This work is powered by people like you, who believe in our shared responsibility to advocate for inclusion and belonging. It will take $34,000 this Give to the Max Day to close the gap and fuel our advocacy.  

Strengthen the voice and choice of everyone affected by autism in Minnesota by contributing $25, $100, $500, or any amount meaningful to you. Together, we are building a world where everyone belongs. Donate today!