This article argues for the meaningful inclusion of people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). It advocates for AAC users to be leaders and co-creators in research, technology development and professional training because they have the best insights into their needs. They are also the best positioned to identify priorities, appropriate methods and potential solutions to the needs of the AAC community. 

A paradigm shift toward inclusive research, technology development and professional training will bring challenges including: 

• the current lack of knowledge and experience with these methods in the AAC field
• the potential for tokenism
• systemic barriers driven by ableism, racism and other oppression.

The authors advocate for people who work in the field to build meaningful collaborations that are guided by mutual respect, trust, a shared vision and a deep commitment to the guiding principle, Nothing about us without us.