e-2399 (Employment and labour)

Petition to the Government of Canada

• 2012 Canadian Survey on Disability states employment rate for autistic adults is 14.3 %, compared to 92.7 % for general population;
• Autism can be diagnosed late in life;
• Adult autism is poorly understood;
• Canada has no clear national services or strategies for autistic adults of every age;
• Every autistic person is different. Some autistic adults prefer finding employment independently; ensuring needs and interests are met. In early stages of employment, some autistic adults may not want to disclose their autism to employer. However, may choose to disclose, and request support, if/when working environment adversely affects them;
• Autistic people are underrepresented in decision making opportunities that affect their lives;
• Autistic people have unique skills sets and abilities; should be allowed to successfully implement within an adapted employment environment. Canada risks falling behind in technology and science sectors (to name a few examples) if it does not develop opportunities for unique, creative thinking and problem solving; and
• England has various strategies and programs assisting autistic adults of all ages. Following their example, Canada has an opportunity to make clear, positive contributions to better the lives of autistic people. Some of the benefits include reducing above-average unemployment within the autistic community; reducing stress experienced by parents of autistic children, by demonstrating a clear future path for their children; and ensuring Canada remains a competitive, creative and forward thinking global player.