Representation matters, but it comes with complications. Moderator Britton Payne (animation attorney; executive director, The Autism Scene) details the sometimes troubling history of autistic characters in comic books and how comics as a medium can foster a modern understanding of autism among its readership. Multiple-Eisner award nominee Deniz Camp will discuss the development of the autism storyline he wrote in the smash hit comic book Absolute Martian Manhunter. Fourth grader and inclusion advocate Eleanor Payne discusses YA books featuring autistic characters. Panelist Rebecca Burgess (YA graphic novel Speak Up!) also discusses their experiences as an autistic comic book creator and the process of creating autistic comic book characters, including an autistic main character navigating her way through high school.
