Autism Speaks to end operations in Canada by January 31

Autism Speaks announced it will end its operations in Canada on January 31, 2025. The organization, which has faced criticism for its focus on curing autism, has shifted its mission over the years but still drew backlash from the autistic community. Some Canadians welcomed the news, viewing it as a sign of changing attitudes towards autism and a move towards embracing neurodiversity. Others expressed concern that families may lose support services previously offered by Autism Speaks, which had been active in Canada since 2006. The decision comes amid increasing autism diagnoses and significant wait times for assessments in Canada. Advocates are now calling for funding to be redirected to smaller, grassroots organizations that better represent the needs of autistic individuals and their families.