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Deep Dive: Citizen Autistic (2013)

Film Lens

Citizen Autistic
Citizen Autistic is a 2013 documentary directed by William Davenport that focuses on the advocacy efforts of autism rights activists. It features interviews with notable figures such as Ari Ne'eman, co-founder of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, and Zoe Gross, who organizes the Disability Day of Mourning vigils for victims with disabilities. The film presents their perspectives on neurodiversity and the importance of self-advocacy within the autistic community. The documentary addresses significant issues such as the debate over seeking a cure for autism and critiques of organizations like Autism Speaks and the Judge Rotenberg Center. The latter is known for its controversial use of electric skin shock as a behavioral modification technique. Through these discussions, the film aims to present the voices of autistic individuals advocating for their rights and recognition in society.

Why Watch

  • Meet Ari Ne'eman and Zoe Gross, key autism advocates.
  • Find out about the Disability Day of Mourning vigils.
  • See critiques of Autism Speaks and the Judge Rotenberg Center.

Did You Know

Ari Ne'eman is a co-founder of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.
Zoe Gross created the Disability Day of Mourning vigils for filicide victims.
The Judge Rotenberg Center uses electric skin shock for behavior modification.

Perfect For

Autism advocacyNeurodiversity discussionsDisability rights