Welcome to Everyone Communicates!

As our name indicates, we believe that everyone communicates, in one way or another. We also believe that communication is a basic need in life. When an individual does not have fluent, natural speech, it is urgent that other methods of communication, often called augmentative or alternative communication (AAC), be explored exhaustively.
Being unable to speak does not mean that an individual does not understand, cannot learn to communicate, or cannot think and reason. It only means that the person has a barrier to communication. With access to a variety of methods, and with creative, attentive, and dedicated people providing support, people with communication impairments caused by a wide range of disabilities can work to develop effective communication.

Freedom to Communicate

Freedom to Communicate
Stick figures, one with communication device and speech bubble; "Freedom to Communicate = Access to conversation anywhere, anytime, about anything with anybody through technology and personalized supports if needed.

Dedication

DEDICATION: This site is dedicated to people who are still waiting for a means to communicate more effectively. We hope this site helps to bring access to communication to more people so that someday soon everyone will have the opportunity to communicate effectively, and no one will have to spend days or years or a lifetime in silence.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Song: Yankee Doodle AAC Advocate: Communication Rights (short version)

Here are lyrics I wrote in honor of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the ADA, using the George M. Cohan tune (which is now in the public domain).  Anyone who wishes to use them is welcome to do so.  I would love to hear of any occasions when they are sung. 

Yankee Doodle AAC Advocate: Communication Rights Song (tune: I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy)

I’m a Yankee Doodle Advocate,
A Yankee Doodle do or die,
A real campaigner for the ADA
Signed in the month of July.
I’ve got a Yankee Doodle vision
For the future, you will see:
Self-determination and communication freedom.
We must campaign for A-A-C.

Everyone needs to communicate
And needs literacy, too.
A conversation helps to set us free.
Mentors help both you and me.
We know that role models can show us
Endless possibilities:
Self-determination and communication freedom,
They are a right for you and me.
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