Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Manage episode 479079247 series 3477439
CNN contributor and civil rights attorney Areva Martin shares her personal journey of raising an autistic son while becoming a powerful advocate for disability rights and creating systemic change.
• Son Marty's autism diagnosis at age two prompted an intensive learning journey
• Navigated overwhelming and often inaccurate information by applying legal training to seek evidence-based resources
• Witnessed evolution from stigma and "cure" focus to greater acceptance and integration of neurodivergent individuals
• Founded Special Needs Network, California's largest social justice organization for special needs children
• Advocates for reform in criminal justice system to better serve autistic individuals
• Uses multiple platforms including social media, television appearances, and legislative testimony to raise awareness
• Emphasizes grassroots advocacy to influence elected officials and policy decisions
• Trains parents and organizations in effective advocacy strategies
• Hosting annual Tools for Transformation Conference on April 26th in Torrance, California
• Pink Pump Fundraising Gala on May 18th to support summer camp and wildfire victims
Visit tonymantor.com/contact if you'd like to share your story on the podcast.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Chapters
1. Introduction to Areva Martin (00:00:00)
2. Personal Journey with Autism (00:01:50)
3. Evolution of Autism Understanding (00:04:16)
4. Navigating Information Challenges (00:05:44)
5. Legal Advocacy for Autism (00:08:09)
6. Autism and the Criminal Justice System (00:10:29)
7. Special Needs Network Foundation (00:16:08)
8. Legislative Advocacy Strategies (00:19:29)
9. Breaking Isolation Through Community (00:22:35)
10. Upcoming Events and Closing (00:26:18)
115 episodes