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56 Aspies

Martian Tom

Something occurred to me earlier when I read about the social media campaign that has been started by 56 black men, using photographs of themselves wearing hoodies.

In case you haven't heard about it, you can read about it here:

Why 56 black men are posing in hoodies

These are all black men who are successful in their own right: politicians, directors, teachers, entrepreneurs, etc.

The campaign has a very simple and important purpose: to challenge perceptions and stereotypes.

22 of these men appeared on the Victoria Derbyshire programme on BBC2 to discuss the campaign and the reasons for it. 

Footage of their appearance is here:

Victoria Derbyshire

I was wondering what people think about setting up a similar campaign for Aspies (men and women). 

And about seeing if we can get a similar chance to have our say on national TV.

Part of starting a dialogue, maybe...

Any thoughts?

Parents

  • I really like this idea - but can I please urge a huge note of caution. Given that Aspies, in general, struggle with social interaction it would (in all likelihood) be extremely unwise to consider a Media campaign without professional help of an experienced PR company or individual to ensure it delivers on the points of its intention.

    I have a lot of experience of various companies I have run dealing with the media and rarely does it pan out as one may have intended. It is nearly always manipulated into a differing version of what was put forward to suit the needs of the broadcaster unless it is stirctly formulated in the right way from the outset.


    Recognising our weaknesses on this, as well as our strengths is crucial. I would hate for this to damage us rather than get the truth out there. I do truly love the idea though. I agree with everyone else that it has real potential.

  • in reply to Confusilation

    Thanks, Paul, for your valuable insights and encouragement.  I have written to several different people, including academics and professionals working  in the field of autism - research, teaching, hands-on support.  I've also contacted the NAS's Press, Media and Campaigns departments.  One of the professionals I contacted is attending a conference next week and is going to talk to a few people there about the idea, and whether it is worth pursuing.  But yes, I quite take your point.

    Putting feelers out to see what comes back. 

Reply
  • in reply to Confusilation

    Thanks, Paul, for your valuable insights and encouragement.  I have written to several different people, including academics and professionals working  in the field of autism - research, teaching, hands-on support.  I've also contacted the NAS's Press, Media and Campaigns departments.  One of the professionals I contacted is attending a conference next week and is going to talk to a few people there about the idea, and whether it is worth pursuing.  But yes, I quite take your point.

    Putting feelers out to see what comes back. 

Children
  • in reply to Martian Tom

    That's Excellent. I'm really glad you've contacted the NAS Media team too - they would be vital really as they will know how it has been hijacked in the past. I'd give the programs themselves (like Victoria Derbyshire) a bit of a wide birth until you get the PR advice of what to present to them. The programs themselves will pick it up fast enough at a later date as the PR folk (if they are any good) will have a roster of sympathetic contacts