Policies and Positions

March 21, 2021

Communication is universal, with access, agency, and autonomy, everyone can be heard.

In this time of disruption, polarization, and fear in our world, I-ASC stands firm in our commitment to increase communication access for ALL nonspeaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking people globally. I-ASC functions under the premise that our community of nonspeaking individuals, their families, trained practitioners, and informed allies come together with an intention to share and support a safe space to learn and grow. We embrace the diversity of our community without judgment or discrimination. There is zero tolerance for bullying, and we will not engage in arguments.

The personal beliefs and opinions of our community members are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position or policies of I-ASC or its employees.

June 10, 2024

I-ASC is founded upon the principle that the world is a better place when ALL people have the opportunity and encouragement to express themselves. For this reason, we welcome and celebrate the words and experiences of people of all disabilities, races, ethnicities, ages, religions, national origins, gender identities, socioeconomic statuses, sexual orientations/identities, and educational backgrounds. We are an LGBTQ+, women-led, equal-opportunity organization committed to utilizing diversity-affirming hiring and leadership practices to ensure our team reflects the global population and upholds our values. Through these efforts, we strive to help dismantle the systemic ableism, racism, sexism, ageism, and heterosexism that exist in our society and create an inclusive workspace where everyone can thrive.

We commit to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through the following initiatives:

• Undergo executive DEI training to help identify and mitigate biases against other employees
• Encourage reports of discriminatory behavior from I-ASC employees, board members, contractors, and S2C Practitioners and ensure that whistleblowers remain anonymous. All instances of discrimination shall be swiftly addressed by the executive leadership team. Report concerns to ethics@i-asc.org.
• Indicate a salary range on all public I-ASC job listings.
• Participate in advocacy campaigns dedicated to eliminating prejudice against marginalized groups.
• Help people in financial need train to serve nonspeakers in their communities through the S2C Practitioner Training Financial Aid Program.
• Host S2C Practitioner recruiting visits in minority communities.

January 7, 2025

At I-ASC, we are deeply committed to ensuring the autonomy and authenticity of nonspeaking individuals’ communication. We honor the diversity and individuality of nonspeakers, recognizing the unique family and community dynamics that support their journey. I-ASC Certified S2C Practitioners embrace an inclusive, nonjudgmental approach, respecting the personal choices, spiritual practices, culture, and beliefs of nonspeakers and their families.

Spelling to Communicate (S2C) is a science-based, sensory-motor, and regulation-focused methodology built on observable, teachable practices. Using a structured and rigorous process, nonspeaking individuals demonstrate their ability to authentically, autonomously, and accurately spell out their thoughts. This approach ensures communication is reliable, replicable, and authentic. I-ASC Certified S2C Practitioners are trained to support diverse sensory-motor profiles and to help nonspeakers develop the motor skills necessary for autonomous communication, free from influence or interference.

As a science-based practice, S2C is firmly rooted in principles of sensory-motor learning, regulation, and evidence-based methodologies. It focuses exclusively on developing the physical skills required for authentic and autonomous communication. I-ASC does not integrate or endorse telepathy or other such personal beliefs as part of S2C. Introducing such concepts into S2C compromises the integrity and credibility of this rigorously defined methodology.

Recent public discussions linking telepathy to nonspeaking individuals and S2C risk creating misunderstandings about the practice. I-ASC emphasizes that telepathy is outside the scope of S2C and unrelated to its science-based approach. Our priority remains on fostering communication through observable, measurable, and repeatable sensory-motor—and regulation-based practices.

Certified S2C Practitioners and Practitioners in Training (PITs) are required to adhere to strict standards of ethics and best practices. These standards ensure that Certified S2C Practitioners and PITs create a neutral and supportive environment that prioritizes the autonomy, dignity, and individuality of nonspeakers. I-ASC ethical practice guidelines require that Certified S2C Practitioners do not offer guidance or consultation with clients, families, or caregivers on personal matters and beliefs, including but not limited to religious views, spiritual practices, mental health, identity or beliefs regarding telepathy as a means of communication. By following these principles, we maintain our role as professionals teaching the communication method of S2C and uphold the trust placed in S2C by the nonspeaking community and its allies.

At I-ASC, we are unwavering in our commitment to integrity, fidelity, compassion, and consistency. By maintaining a clear focus on evidence-based practices, we continue to champion the autonomy and authenticity of nonspeaking individuals. Together, we strive to create a future where the communication of nonspeaking people is recognized, respected, and celebrated without compromise.