Having some trouble on one of my Autism groups. Someone posted about a topic/article and the first response was basically saying indigenous Aussies were paid to immunise their kids eetc. I pointed out the truth - all Aussies are eligible for the immunisation allowance. But it degenerated and a couple of members spouted off about how they hate immigrants and how they had to save their own lives by paying for their own medication and surgery and the government didn't help them etc. Then they wanted to know what *I* got from Centrelink. I felt personally attacked, and just stated that that question undermined the fact that I have worked and studied for the last ten years, at the very least part-time, and this year it was full-time. Not to mention my volunteer and community work, and that I'm a single Mum. I don't even get child support payments.

Anyway, the woman - and I use the term loosely - who I feel personally attacked me is now threatening to leave the group. She doesn't like being called a racist...I never even used that word. The worst thing I said was that I was disappointed that whenever certain issues erupt it seems one or two races are labelled as troublesome.

This woman is trying to stir up trouble and...I don't care? I mean I do, because I like the moderators of the group. But frankly, I'm NOT going to apologise for NOT being a racist, ignorant bigot. I see the value of government payments for minority groups...these women forget that we as a community of families dealing with Autism are a minority group. We get payments for our kids with Autism...how are we any different to indigenous communities in Far North QLD? There are those of us who use the payments to benefit our kids, and there are those of us who drink, gamble or snort it away. Know what I mean?

I am just in complete disbelief that someone is actually angry at me for NOT being racist.

It must be so incredibly difficult for people to be so mean spirited and stupid; to live a life of fear and sit in judgement of all those who are different. I feel sorry for this woman and her little band of idiotic biddies. I may not be the nicest person, the prettiest, the most intelligent...but at least I don't spread viciousness, hatred and lies.