By Andriana Simos.
To this day, autism remains widely misunderstood by people across the globe. It varies in scale and intensity and often leads to the isolation of those who suffer from it. This has to change. In Australia, it’s estimated that one in 100 people have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)- that is almost 230, 000 Australians. With such shocking statistics, it comes as a shock to many that those who suffer from autism continue to face intense discrimination and bullying.
Trying to break down this stigma around autism is one hell of a challenge. Luckily there are people who work tirelessly to take on this challenge and make the lives of people with autism just that little bit easier.
Renay Mannah and Charlie Sleiman are two of these exceptional people. They are the organisers of the Be The Voice gala dinner, raising support for Autism Awareness Australia. I had the privilege of speaking with Renay about the event and what inspired her to organise it.
Andriana Simos: Can you tell me a little bit about the event?
Renay Mannah: It’s an intimate dinner with entertainment and auctions of donated products/ services that will help raise funds for Autism Awareness Australia. Along with raising funds, we hope to also raise awareness and understanding of autism in the community.
AS: Why do you think it is important to hold this fundraiser?
RM: This fundraiser is to help raise funds for Autism Awareness Australia. This not for profit organisation is trying to improve the lives of all Australians on the autism spectrum and the families who love them. They empower parents and carers with quality information and resources. They also provide targeted educational programs to families, professionals and the broader community and support inclusion for people on the autism spectrum. I hope the funds raised from this event will help them with their cause.
AS: Do you have a personal connection to someone with autism in some way?
RM: Yes. Very personal. My son was diagnosed with autism when he was 3.
AS: Does this make you more passionate about the cause?
RM: Yes definitely. I want to inform people about autism and I want to make sure that people with autism are learning, working and living in an inclusive environment.
AS: Do you think there is still a stigma around autism in society?
RM: Yes definitely. For example, if you go to the shop or to a park and have a child that is spinning or making noises, people stare at you or they can be annoyed and hostile and say “Control your child.” This can cause shame and isolation for the child and their families as it sets them apart. Also, children with autism look no different to other kids so for the uninformed person, this sometimes antisocial and disruptive behaviour can be seen as suspicious.
AS: Do you think this can change? Are you hoping your fundraiser can help remove this stigma a little bit?
RM: I think where possible, children with autism need to be included in ‘regular classrooms’. Another way to help de-stigmatise autism is to focus on their positives, advantages and abilities. Not to focus on what they can’t do but what they can do.
AS: Who is able to attend the fundraiser?
RM: It’s an open invitation for everyone and anyone who is passionate about supporting people with autism along with their family and friends.
AS: Thank you Renay.
With limited tickets available and ticket links closing tomorrow, you can buy your ticket here.
Simos Standpoints 