“I’m just different” -- Elijah McClain to Aurora police officers

I wanted to bring to your attention the death of Elijah McClain, in part, because I think it gives light to the tragic consequences when communities are unaware of the importance of understanding neurodiversity. Some of you might have followed the news recently that criminal charges have now been filed in Colorado against the police and first responders involved in the encounter that led to his death.

We don't know what health conditions Elijah did or didn't have, and frankly we don't have to know. What is obvious watching the video and news reporting is that an upstanding young adult was going about his life. He encountered law enforcement and met an unnecessarily confrontational response because he simply didn't behave in a precise, compliant manner expected by the officers. That the situation quickly escalated into him being recklessly drugged as a means of pacification is horrifying. 

The needs of the neurodiverse community are to be respected and heard. And the more we as a society can embrace neurodiversity, the more likely all people will benefit regardless of self-identification. That's why I hope all of us continue to stay tuned as this case proceeds through the justice system. The more attention we can all bring to the life of Elijah McClain, the more that will lead to an awareness and acceptance of differences. 

Tools & Tips
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FLOREO SUBSCRIPTION
We have expanded our lesson library significantly over the past year! If you haven't had a chance to check out our latest lessons, you can read the description of each (along with the objectives/goals for each lesson) without signing in to Floreo!

This resource will also be helpful for Coaches who are wondering which lessons might be most applicable to their Learners. The lesson library descriptions are a great first step for deciding where to start and what the Coach can expect throughout the lesson. Remember that the best way to become a Floreo expert is by practicing on your own as both the Coach and the Learner so you can really understand the nuances of each lesson!

Stay tuned for our latest release
SNEAK PEEK OF AN UPCOMING LESSON
Our long-awaited grocery store experience is almost here! The first learning card in this series will be coming out soon. Stay tuned for the release announcement!

Research study opportunity
FROM OUR PARTNERS AT CHOP
Our partners at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia are recruiting participants for a compensated survey about autism and police. Please consider participating or sharing with others who might be interested!

What have we been reading this week?
NEWS ROUND-UP

• Augmented and Virtual Reality’s potential in education
• Children with autism face different challenges at school than at home
• Shaping the world for neurological difference
• How autism affects families: challenges and positives
• Divergent Investments' inaugural "1 in 5" newsletter: focused on helping parents keep up with new innovations, tips and networks in the neurodiversity sector