The Autism Puzzle Piece Debate

What's your opinion?
 
The Autism Puzzle Piece logo, which is associated with autism, is currently a controversial symbol and highly debated topic in the autism community.
 
Gerald Glasson, a parent member of the Executive Committee for the National Autistic Society, created this Autism Puzzle Piece in 1963. He chose a puzzle piece as a visual aid to illustrate the puzzling nature of autism. 

However, some opposed it stating that the logo depicted those with autism as incomplete, irregular, challenging, and isolated. The controversy continued further when the puzzle piece was adopted by Autism Speaks.

Therefore, in 2017, researchers tested the general public’s reactions to being shown the Puzzle Piece logo, in relation to individuals with autism.
 
Their test revealed that more often than not, people reacted negatively when seeing the Puzzle Piece logo, confirming the sentiments of many autism advocates, that people associate puzzle pieces with things that are odd. 
 
These results prompted Autism Advocates to think of alternate ideas for a new logo.  Several were in favor of the Autism Pride rainbow-colored infinity logo, some advocated for a brain logo, while others rallied for the Puzzle Piece Ribbon illustrating the diversity of people on the spectrum and how we all come in different shapes and sizes. Since the vast majority could not agree on one specific logo the National Autism Awareness organization stuck with the blue logo to avoid any confusion.
 
Since the conversation still continues today regarding a new logo, what are your thoughts?  Would you be open to a new design?  Should the Puzzle Piece one be replaced or are you okay with it?    
 
Personally, as a Special Education teacher and avid advocate for individuals on the spectrum, I am in favor of the Puzzle Piece Ribbon.  I believe the pieces represent the many unique attributes that individuals on the Autism Spectrum possess.  It is a logo I am proud to wear and display in support of the students I am privileged to teach every day.

-Debbie Castelluccio, Teacher, Celebrate the Children
 
Reference Article:  Puzzle Piece logo from Art Of Autism 2017