The Power of Words: How We Talk About People With Autism Spectrum Disorders Matters!

One in 150 children in the United States has autism. As an adult with an autism diagnosis, Judy Endow has experienced first-hand what it feels like to be the '1' in the 1 in 150. Based on a poem "The Language of Us and Them" (Shevin, 1987), "The Power of Words" combines words, pictures, and music to present examples of how the '149' talk about the '1' with autism, noting that even well-meaning and kind words can set the tone for acceptance or rejection as well as for inclusion or exclusion. While acknowledging the importance of a proper diagnosis, Judy warns about the damage and pain labeling can cause by separating and isolating. This powerful DVD inspires us to use language wisely.