Autistic and Living the Dream

Category: LGBTQIA+

  • Breaking the Model: On Cisgenderism, Ableism, and Academic Survival

    Breaking the Model: On Cisgenderism, Ableism, and Academic Survival

    The blog discusses a conversation on The Autism Podcast addressing issues of cisgenderism, ableism, and intersectionality, particularly for trans autistic individuals in healthcare. The author shares experiences about community involvement, the challenges faced by autistic youth, substance use among autistic adults, and the complexities of research within a deficit-oriented psychological field.

  • Inclusive Practices for Better Gender Identity Care

    Inclusive Practices for Better Gender Identity Care

    To improve gender identity healthcare for autistic and neurodivergent individuals, key recommendations include hiring a trans healthcare coordinator, enhancing GP training, prioritizing trauma-informed care, and ensuring accessibility. Participants emphasise the need for empathy, communication, and a patient-centered approach that recognises and addresses the unique challenges faced by this community.

  • Enhancing Accessibility in Gender Identity Services

    Enhancing Accessibility in Gender Identity Services

    Autistic and neurodivergent individuals face significant barriers in accessing gender-affirming healthcare, as revealed by research on their experiences. Discrimination occurs when disclosing autism, leading to feelings of frustration and alienation. Accessibility issues further complicate care, with non-binary experiences often overlooked. A call for continuous learning and empathy in healthcare is essential for improvement.

  • Insights from TNBI Mental Health Research Workshop

    Insights from TNBI Mental Health Research Workshop

    Above is a link to the amazing project from Artie Carden, which shares information about the project, a link to the zine, a screen reader version of the zine and a full transcript. The zine can also be accessed for free here: Are You Talking to Me? Are You Talking to Me? A TNBI Research…

  • Initial Steps for Parents After a Child Comes Out as Trans

    Initial Steps for Parents After a Child Comes Out as Trans

    “My child just came out to me, what do I do?” I have been asked this question many times as a professional. For many of the families I work with I am the only openly queer person they know. My first piece of advice? Breathe, everything feels a little better after a deep breath, it…

  • Promoting LGBTQIA+ Equity in Education: Insights from a Researcher

    Promoting LGBTQIA+ Equity in Education: Insights from a Researcher

    LGBTQIA+ justice involves recognising and valuing individuals in the community, aiming for equity and allied liberation. The author advocates for visibility and accountability within academic settings, confronting transphobia while supporting trans+ individuals. They emphasise the importance of boundaries and creating supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ liberation, amid ongoing challenges in academia.

  • Embracing Authenticity in Academic Presentations

    Embracing Authenticity in Academic Presentations

    The author reflects on speaking at various queer and autistic conferences, emphasizing the challenges of conforming to normative presentation styles. They found comfort in familiar environments and shared experiences with attendees. Despite difficulties, they aimed for a conversational approach, valuing personal storytelling and community engagement over traditional presentation norms.

  • The Importance of Accessibility at London Trans+ Pride

    The Importance of Accessibility at London Trans+ Pride

    I attended my first London Trans+ Pride with a friend, experiencing an accessible event that drew over 100,000 people. Highlights included an Accessible Bloc, interpreter support, and designated quiet spaces. The march emphasized solidarity, joy, and inclusivity, ensuring everyone could participate fully. I look forward to returning next year.

  • How to Support Trans and Non-Binary Friends: An Ally’s Guide

    How to Support Trans and Non-Binary Friends: An Ally’s Guide

    This blog serves as a resource for allies of trans and non-binary individuals, emphasizing active learning about gender and allyship. It highlights the diverse experiences within the trans community, the importance of using correct pronouns, and encourages ongoing education. Misunderstandings are human, fostering respect and understanding in interactions is crucial.

  • LGBT Organisations Face Backlash for Ties with Anti-Trans Government

    LGBT Organisations Face Backlash for Ties with Anti-Trans Government

    Trans+ individuals in the UK face intensified violence from the Labour Government, prompting Pride Events to exclude political party participation. Despite this, some LGBT+ organisations attended a garden party hosted by the Prime Minister. Complicity and canapes.