All autistic individuals deserve to be treated with the same dignity and respect that should be afforded to all individuals, regardless of race, cultural identity, religious affiliation, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, or other considerations. Championing autistic voices and those of historically marginalized individuals is of the utmost importance.

Communication is a fundamental human right. Autistic individuals communicate in different ways, and not everyone uses spoken language as their primary or preferred means of communication. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) encompasses a range of tools, strategies, and approaches that support communication, including speech-generating devices, picture-based systems such as the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), and sign language. TALES supports access to individualized, evidence-based AAC practices that promote meaningful, authentic communication.

It is precisely because TALES values the rights, autonomy, and communication needs of nonspeaking autistic individuals that we do not endorse approaches that lack scientific validation and carry documented risks – this includes Facilitated Communication (FC) or related approaches, including Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) and Spelling to Communicate (S2C). Because these practices involve physical, gestural, or verbal facilitation, they carry significant risks of unconscious facilitator influence and lack objective evidence demonstrating that the individual is communicating independently.

We also recognize that individuals and families may have varied experiences and that some report positive outcomes from practices that lack scientific support. Every individual and family has the right to make their own decisions about services and supports. However, testimonials alone cannot establish the reliability, effectiveness, or independent authorship of a communication system. Clinical recommendations must always be guided by the best available rigorous, independent research, individual needs, and sound professional judgment.

We encourage families to learn about the available evidence, consider the potential risks and benefits of different approaches, and seek guidance from qualified professionals when making these decisions. Our responsibility is to recommend and endorse practices grounded in established evidence and a commitment to the well-being and communication rights of the individuals we serve.