Women diagnosed with autism as young adults will talk about their experiences at an upcoming event.

Girls are about four times less likely than boys to receive a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. The MN Autism Resource Symposium will explore theories about why. The event will feature a panel of autistic women.

“Partners in Progress” is the theme of the second annual virtual MN Autism Resource Symposium on Wednesday, April 12. The all-day event will cover subjects related to helping families and people with autism find solutions and resources to improve their lives.

“Emphasizing partnership is an excellent focus for this event,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “We have to do everything we can to connect people to the right supports at the right time. As autistic people and their parents and loved ones know, we have many resources available in our communities.”

Highlights of the symposium will include:

• Opening speech by state Rep. Kim Hicks, DFL-Rochester, who has a child with autism and is an expert and advocate
• Keynote panel on the experience of autistic women
• Updated autism prevalence data from the Minnesota Autism Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network
• Panel on lived experiences with MnCHOICES assessments and support plans

To register, visit this link: MN Autism Resource Symposium registration