A4A Ontario

Autistics for Autistics Ontario (A4A) is an autistic-led self-advocacy organization working to advance the rights and inclusion of autistic people in Canada. Its members are autistic adults who speak for themselves and advocate for direct consultation with autistic people on policies that affect their lives. A4A is affiliated with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and works with disability organizations to shift autism policy away from a charity-based approach toward a rights-based perspective.

The organization focuses on inclusion in schools, employment, housing and access to health care. Its work includes public education, activism, policy advocacy, seminars, resources, guides and policy papers. A4A has consulted with government bodies and other institutions, and its members speak with employers, universities and health providers about neurodiversity and access needs. Through its Autistic Health Access Project, founded in 2018, A4A engages medical schools on the needs of autistic and non-speaking patients. It also supports community initiatives, including efforts to improve access to vaccination clinics, and offers members opportunities to connect and share resources.