ACPA27 recognizes that communication can happen through a variety of ways. We will be offering optional “communication badges” at check-in that allow attendees to designate their comfort and willingness to engage in social connections. Adapted from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network’s (ASAN) Color Communication Badge system, this offering was first developed in autistic spaces to visually share communication preferences.

If desired, attendees can pick-up a badge during the check-in process and wear it on their lanyard throughout Convention.

Badge Types

Indicates someone is actively seeking communication. For some, they may find initiating conversations difficult but they want to engage with others who are interested in talking. 

Indicates someone who only wants conversations initiated by people they know. People with yellow badges may initiate conversations with strangers wearing green badges, and that is okay. 

Indicates someone who most likely does not want to talk or just wants to talk with a few people. Someone with a red badge may initiate conversations, and that is okay please engage. 

How Color Communication Badges support inclusion

As explained by ASAN, “Color communication badges are a good aid because they allow people to express their current communication preference quickly, nonverbally, and simply – people can change what a card is showing if their preference changes. They are a good way to prevent situations where someone is caught in a social situation they do not want to be in, or situations where someone wants to talk but can’t initiate.”