Autism just needs more understanding. | Gavin Runkle | TEDxYouth@Columbus

Eleven year-old Gavin Runkle bravely reminds us that Autism is not a disease- it is a disability that needs more awareness and understanding.
Student in Columbus City Schools.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@n1fffan]

this kid's cadence in his speech reminds me of me when I was that old. used to frustrate my father the way I spoke, and I had to learn how to process my thoughts fully before I spoke

[@sindhuravaddamani3570]

Loved it kid. Reminds me of my son who is 4.5yrs old now and is autistic. He does have that word finding difficulty

[@jewelslove2200]

THANK YOU GAVIN

[@visage9040]

Wonderful explanation! Thank you for encouraging others to be themselves

[@melissaatiya2224]

So beautifully done. This boy is amazing

[@georgiebungle2252]

Good on you Gavin !
Well done !

[@BANKSWORTH]

This was a great speech Gavin! he is such an amazing presenter

[@Travelingyplayingconninos]

Great great! Thanks

[@kareembisram9928]

Great job

[@tabithainspiredtv1719]

AWESOME PRESENTATION! My son has autism...

[@munchocrisps]

Autism is a different ability. (In a good positive perspective) - From Dhar Mann’s autism mentioned videos.

[@ashlynmichaud6097]

I'm one of those 3.5 along with my identical mirror twin Sister

[@marcusrayrosales1]

This is a somewhat incoherent talk. Not trying to be mean, but I thought he was a little kid originally not from his appearance, but his language.

[@KennethHuntington1]

I think it was a good talk! I'm sure many neurotypicals would be confused since there wasn't a clear message however I think it's awesome to hear a perspective from a young person since us old people actively try to silence their experience, not to mention we often don't let people speak who may need to turn mental imagery into words which is one of the causes which make many autistic people to talk slowly, in awkward patterns or with stutters(not to mention other barriers to fluid speech like emotional trauma.) Despite the unclear message I consider this a win for the autistic community which is one of the most silenced groups in cultures around the world. We should be celebrating all of our representation, not just what we consider to be an ultimate display of superiority. Plus, getting on stage is difficult especially when you have sensory issues. This kid is awesome!

[@dasein9980]

marcusrayrosales1 Normies cannot handle straight talk

[@eddiepower3876]

marcusrayrosales1 he IS little ...when he said 19 years old he meant 19 months dah

[@cawfrige]

Kenneth Huntington thanks! I appreciate the support. I was VERY nervous, and I forgot everything I was supposed to say, but what matters is that I did it. Thank you for understanding! ~Gavin Runkle

[@corey.the.frickling2808]

@@cawfrige Found you Gavin. I just remembered that you did this, but I never watched. I now understand autism a little bit better now. I never really knew much of anything about it.

[@_neophyte2391]

Unlucky parents, like me.