Understanding “autism” as a sensory-movement disability, rather than as a social disability, might help autistic people to not only better understand ourselves, but to better understand other autistic people, as well.
Skeptics have long tried to create doubt about the capacity for nonspeaking autistics who use spelling to communicate, but new research using eye tracking software proves agency.
It also means that the past year has made it clear to me that what our movement needs is space where everyone, regardless of opinion, is welcome, in which the decisions of the community at large are represented (not just the decisions of autistic people who have leadership positions).
The way society regards autistics is explored through a political analogy where accommodations for autistics are based on the conservative value of assimilation instead of the progressive value of a cultural mosaic.
I promise that I will always try to approach the idea of a cure or treatment with compassion in mind. If someone feels they need to be cured, it’s logical to reason that they are hurting. I will try to keep this in mind to avoid minimizing any harm.
ADHDers have what has been called an “interest-based nervous system.” We might have difficulty concentrating on something difficult or uninteresting, but we can also hyperfocus on the things that we’re really into. The real experience of ADHD is not a deficit of attention, but an inability to regulate it.
I believe that those of us with platforms are obliged to share the words of non-speakers and seek their input whenever possible. We can’t do what the “anti-neurodiversity” crowd does; we can’t argue over whose voice is more acceptable.
What it means to unmask, find your community, and empower your neurotribe.
There were a couple of things that spurred my dive into research regarding facilitated communication (FC) and other methods of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC).
In order to invalidate the words and language of those who require a communication partner, opponents cling to logical fallacies to justify ableism.
Providing no-cost, ad-free, high-quality articles
by autistic writers and professionals.
We’re also working on several charitable initiatives.
Get weekly updates on all our stories
