With partners Altogether Autism, Pacific Autism Support Group and Massey University (Dr. Vijaya Dharan), Patty visited Hamilton and Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand in November 2025 to collaborative on two in-person talanoa/hui (talking circles) with Māori and Pacifika autistic people, service providers, advocates and family members.

Discussions were rich and initial insights include: (1) the need for education in community to overcome stigma, (2) the heart-rending choice families and individuals are often forced to make around accessing mainstream services versus immersing their care in culture , and (3) the potential of rich cultural resources of radical acceptance (Samoan) and affirmative, gift-oriented education and care (Māori).

Participants in the talking circles identified a strong need for action including advocacy and education for communities and educators.

We are transcribing and co-analyzing talking circles and will be co-producing community and professional trainings, a policy brief and an academic paper to be shared with partners in Aotearoa and Canada.

This research was in part funded through an Elliott/Upitis/Bamji Travel Fellowship from Queen’s Faculty of Education.