Beyond the Toy Box: Why Representation is a Right, Not a Luxury

by SNN | Jan 12, 2026 | Diversity and Inclusion, President's Statement, Press Release, Statement

MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Special Needs Network and Areva Martin’s Statement on Why an Autistic Barbie Matters More Than a Toy LOS ANGELES, CA — The introduction of an autistic Barbie has sparked a national conversation about representation, inclusion, and...

No Child Should Go Hungry Because of Politics

by SNN | Oct 23, 2025 | Diversity and Inclusion, President's Statement, Press Release, Social Justice, Statement

MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Areva Martin Mobilizes Emergency Action as CalFresh Shutdown Threatens Millions of California Families Los Angeles, CA – Areva Martin, one of the nation’s most prominent civil rights attorneys and a leading voice for children,...

L.A. and Altadena Fire Victims’ Assistance Centers

by SNN | Jan 14, 2025 | President's Statement, Press Release

Centers Offering FEMA, SBA, and Financial Resource Assistance In the wake of recent disasters, many individuals and families are struggling to access the resources they need to recover and rebuild. To address this urgent need, the Los Angeles Urban League, Martin...

Civil Rights Attorney and Special Needs Network Founder & President Areva Martin Statement on the Passing of Sheila Jackson Lee

by SNN | Jul 20, 2024 | President's Statement, Press Release

Statement on the Passing of Sheila Jackson Lee America’s leading civil rights attorney and Special Needs Network Founder and President Areva Martin issued the following statement on the passing of Sheila Jackson Lee, long-serving Democratic congresswoman and advocate:...

Civil Rights Advocate Areva Martin Calls for Urgent Reform and Compassionate Response Following the Fatal Shooting of Teen in Southern California

by SNN | Apr 8, 2024 | Autism, President's Statement, Press Release, Social Justice

Los Angeles, CA – Following the heart-wrenching incident in Victorville, California, where a 17-year-old boy with mental health issues was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputies, Areva Martin, a notable civil rights attorney and fervent advocate for mental...

Areva Martin Honors Rev. Dr. Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray: A Legacy of Inclusivity and Empowerment in Autism Advocacy

by SNN | Apr 8, 2024 | President's Statement, Press Release, Statement

Los Angeles, CA – Civil rights attorney, commentator, and fervent advocate for autism awareness Areva Martin paid homage to the influential life and lasting legacy of Reverend Dr. Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray, an Advisory Board Member for Special Needs...