Irish autism charity AsIAm is partnering with Microsoft Ireland to present a free online session, titled Autism – Separating Fact from Fiction, on Friday, September 12 from 1pm to 2pm. Taking place as part of the 14th Autism Europe Congress in Dublin, this event challenges the Irish public to come together for one hour to break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and build a more inclusive society.
Designed for the general public, the session will explore some of the most common myths about autism, replacing them with evidence-based insights and real-life perspectives. A dynamic mix of presentations, discussions, and a live Q&A will give attendees the opportunity to learn, engage, and ask questions, helping to foster understanding and connection across communities.
“Our aim is to foster an open, engaging and informative conversation where everyone feels welcome and empowered to learn more about autism," said Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm. "We have seen a substantial rise in misinformation around autism, with 92 per cent of autistic people represented in our annual Same Chance Report believing this to be the case. By sharing accurate information and authentic lived experiences, we hope to promote greater understanding and create meaningful support for autistic people across all areas of life — at home, in education, in the workplace and in the community.”
The session will be co-hosted by Caitlin Cruise of AsIAm and Michael Barrett, Microsoft Dream Space LIVE host, and will feature content based on the recent Same Chance Report — which highlights the challenges and opportunities for inclusion in Irish society.
The hosts will discuss what autism is and isn’t, challenge common myths, share lived experiences and offer practical tips for inclusion and support in everyday and workplace settings.
This event follows a collaboration earlier this year between AsIAm and Microsoft Dream Space for World Autism Month, which saw more than 10,000 school children engage in an online session.
The Autism – Separating Fact from Fiction one-hour session will also be made available on-demand via the AsIAm YouTube channel.
