In the richly layered tale of the South Asian community in the United States, certain chapters remain unread, their stories overshadowed by louder narratives. These are the women and individuals with disabilities whose cries for justice and equality have long been drowned out by cultural, social, and systemic barriers. Rubaiya Rahman, the founder and CEO of ASHO, is on a mission to redefine this narrative, creating a society where everyone, irrespective of gender or ability, is given a stage.
A single incident of injustice didn’t spark Rahman’s journey. Instead, it was a culmination of countless silenced stories and institutional neglect she witnessed within her community, particularly towards people with disabilities. “They are often shadows within their own homes and communities,” Rahman noted in her poignant conversation with “The Fame,” highlighting the lack of facilities and support for individuals with special needs.
Her advocacy, rooted in the belief that self-reliance is the cornerstone of dignity, has seen her pushing for systemic changes. Rahman is not just speaking up but also weaving a safety net for those at the fringes, particularly individuals affected by autism. ASHO, or the Autism Society Habilitation Organization, emerged from this very mindset. This non-profit organization has improved lives with its commitment to nurturing an environment where children on the autism spectrum can thrive, not just survive.
Under Rahman’s leadership, ASHO is the power of community-centric solutions. The organization converges at the crossroads between urgent need and lasting impact, focusing on the Bangladeshi American population grappling with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in New York City.
From providing comprehensive support services to navigating the complex terrain of legal guardianship, ASHO has been a guiding light for many families swimming against the tide. The commitment doesn’t stop at immediate relief; it’s about charting a sustainable journey towards independence and quality living.
Parallel to her disability rights advocacy, Rahman is an upholder of women’s rights. Her stance, she clarified, is the culmination of observing persistent gender biases and systemic inequalities. “The struggle resonates across global boundaries, and it’s disheartening that even in the 21st century, women’s potential is often undercut by prejudice and exploitation,” Rahman expressed with a resolve that mirrored her years of advocacy.
Rahman’s recent campaign for the NY City Council was a power pursuit and a strategic move to amplify the muted voices in corridors where decisions are made. She emphasized public safety, education, and equal representation in her manifesto, intending to bridge the chasm between policy and reality for women and individuals with disabilities.
ASHO’s future is dotted with ambitious blueprints, reflecting Rahman’s belief in empowerment over charity. A significant upcoming initiative is the collaboration with Autism Speaks to craft a toolkit in Bangla, ensuring language is not a barrier to knowledge and support.
Moreover, ASHO’s visionary habilitation programs aim to blend vocational training with essential life skills, promising a holistic approach to empowerment. “It’s about unveiling their full potential and integrating them as equal, contributing members of society,” Rahman shared, her vision for ASHO intertwining with her broader dream for an inclusive community.
Rubaiya Rahman’s story with ASHO is a reminder that advocacy isn’t just about speaking up; it’s about echoing the unheard whispers until they become a resounding chorus for change. In her fight, every stride taken clears the path for the South Asian community to emerge from the shadows and claim their place in the world’s diverse landscape.
