Joe Bradley is an accomplished artist on the autism spectrum and a founding member of SARRC’s SAAB. He is currently the Director of Marketing Partnerships at Cardone Ventures and is the artist behind Arizona’s first specialty autism license plate: “Driving Support for Autism.”
What does Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month mean to you, and why is it important?
It’s a reminder to celebrate neurodivergent voices and shift the conversation from “awareness” to understanding, inclusion, and meaningful support.
What’s one common misconception about autism that you’d like to challenge?
That autistic people lack empathy. Many of us feel deeply, just express it differently, and sometimes don’t understand why indirect communication is preferred over a more efficient, emotionless communication.
If someone is new to autism advocacy, what’s one piece of advice you’d give them?
Listen to autistic voices. Lived experiences over assumptions or second-hand opinions.
What’s one thing you wish parents, families, and allies of autistic individuals better understood?
That masking is exhausting. Supporting authenticity is more valuable than pushing conformity.
How can our community move beyond just “awareness” and take real action to support autistic individuals?
By hiring autistic professionals, designing accessible environments, and funding support that autistic people ask for.
What’s something about your autism that makes you proud?
My ability to see patterns others miss and to bring creative, outside-the-box solutions to problems. I can catch trends early, and at times, it’s like “seeing the future,” from a non-esoteric standpoint, of course.
What’s one way autism has shaped your perspective or approach to life?
It’s made me value authenticity and question social norms that don’t serve everyone equally.
As a member of SARRC’s Self-Advocate Advisory Board, what’s one initiative or goal that matters most to you?
Empowering autistic adults to advocate for themselves in workplaces; giving them tools to succeed on their own terms.
What are some meaningful ways people can promote autism acceptance year-round, not just in April?
Hire autistic talent, amplify our voices, and challenge awareness in everyday conversations.
What’s one strength or unique perspective you’ve gained through your experience as an autistic individual?
A deep sense of clarity and focus when I’m aligned with my passions it’s a superpower when it’s nurtured, not suppressed.
