Community members in Oklahoma City with a mind for inclusivity and safety are sliding into an opportunity for connection at the upcoming Autism Awareness Safety Night. Set for 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, at the Dale Rogers Training Center, families affected by autism and intellectual disabilities are welcome to engage with local police officers—no dollar needed to partake. "This event is important because it gives people with autism and police officers the chance to practice their interactions with each other," Oklahoma City Police Department Capt. Michelle Henderson said, as reported by a bulletin released by the City of Oklahoma City.
For those seeking knowledge, attendees can to directly explore local resources, pose questions, and wrap their minds around IDD Safe—a program aiming to shore up protection for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The numbers tell part of the tale: as per the CDC, a concerning 1 in 36 children in the U.S. have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. And with 20% of youth with autism having been stopped and questioned by law enforcement by age 21—with nearly 5 percent ending up arrested—it's clear that these interactions must be sculpted with care and compassion. Retired Oklahoma City Police Department Lt. and IDD Safe co-founder Stan Campbell, who has a nephew with autism, said, "For over 20 years I have been teaching police officers and residents self-defense and conflict resolution." Campbell's personal connection injects heart into the mission: "I have a nephew with autism and knowing the importance of protecting our most vulnerable residents is close to my heart," he told the City of Oklahoma City.
Beyond the badge and cruisers, this event is a partnership effort where the Dale Rogers Training Center, IDD Safe, Autism Foundation of Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma City Police Department come togetherto facilitate understanding.
