Global Jewish Discussion Circle

Sunday January 12
1PM PACIFIC - 4PM EST - 9PM GMT

Topic: Finding Your Voice: Self-Advocacy Strategies for Autistic Individuals

Up, Up, and Aware: What Superman Can Teach Us About Mental Health

In the early part of the 21st century, when life felt simpler, I wrote a book that brought together years of geeky enthusiasm and thoughtful reflection, Up, Up and Oy Vey! Recently, I’ve come to see my fascination with masks as deeply connected to neurodivergence and advocacy.

My latest article, "Up, Up, and Aware: What Superman Can Teach Us About Mental Health," explores the lessons Superman offers—the man has returned, and we need him more than ever.

Global Jewish Discussion Circle

Sunday January 26
1PM PACIFIC - 4PM EST - 9PM GMT

Topic: Autistic and Empowered: Building Self-Efficiency in Self-Advocacy

Read the latest from our contributors.

Family Empowerment Day in Albany

Here's a snapshot of me at Family Empowerment Day in Albany, advocating for inclusive policies and support for families across New York State.

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Our Story

We’re a Brooklyn-based couple on a mission to make our community a more comfortable place for Autistic individuals and their families.

Together, we founded the Jewish Autism Network, a global shtetl where you can kvell and kvetch with people who get it!

Pics:
Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York State
Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, Special Envoy to Monitor & Combat Anti Semitism

Attending Governor Kathy Hochul's Rosh Hashanah gathering at the Center for Jewish History on September 19th. Among the many initiatives highlighted was a commitment to recognizing the unique issues surrounding Jewish Americans’ Mental health.

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) created the Spotlight on Jewish Americans Campaign to provide resources to develop a webinar to the existing equity series that will preface cultural and religious considerations, address antisemitism and its effects, and provide best-practice approaches in the provision of behavioral health services for this community.

Over the last year, we’ve embarked on a series of advocacy trips to Albany. Our mission? To meet political figures and engage in discussions about developmental disabilities legislation.

We had the incredible opportunity to voice our concerns, share personal stories, and advocate for change. Working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all is an empowering experience!

Pics:
Angelo Santabarbara, Assemblyman & Dadvocate
John W. Mannion, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Disabilities Rebecca Seawright, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Disabilities
Simcha Eichenstein, Assemblyman
Kerri Neifeld, Commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
Shelley Mayer, Chair of the Senate Committee on Education

We provide a warm, independent, nonjudgmental place to connect, community outreach, and practical support for Autistic self-advocates.

We're neither establishment nor experts: we’re families, and we’re stronger together.

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