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Poetry and Grief: Honouring Professor Jason Arday
Last night’s grief circle by Black Psychotherapy, led by poet Janice Whyne, honoured Professor Jason Arday. Participants expressed deep emotions of grief, rage, and injustice associated with his tragic death and broader societal issues. The session encouraged reflection on grief, community support, and the transformative power of shared experiences and words.
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Celebrating the work of Professor Jason Arday
In early 2023, Cambridge University were delighted to tell the world that Dr Jason Arday had been appointed as a Professor of Sociology of Education, with his post beginning in March that year. Cambridge University shared “Arday has faced many personal challenges – notably being diagnosed, at the age of three, with a form of…
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Breaking Down Single-Issue Advocacy in Autism
The author reflects on their autistic experience, acknowledging a narrow viewpoint shaped by privilege and a lack of humility. They discuss past mistakes in advocacy, emphasising the need for inclusivity and understanding within the autistic community. Recognising the interconnectedness of various oppressions, they advocate for embracing diverse experiences and identities among autistic people.
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The Search for a Unifying Term in Autism
The quest for an inclusive term for the Autistic community is daunting due to its diverse experiences and identities. Terms like “neurodivergent” and “Autism Spectrum Disorder” resonate differently among individuals. Racial dynamics complicate this further, highlighting that while language should respect autonomy, it often reflects societal hierarchies influenced by racism and ableism.
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Understanding the Gender Gap in Autism Diagnosis
The historical perception of autism as primarily a male condition has led to a significant diagnosis gap for women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. While theories like the Female Autism Phenotype have emerged, they often reinforce gender stereotypes and exclude marginalized groups, complicating access to support and erasing diverse autistic experiences.
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Challenging Illusions of Inclusivity in Workspaces
Through my deepening journey with social justice I feel I am finally opening my eyes. With this new found clarity I am no longer able to be in spaces where people don’t champion and validate diversity and prioritise the psychological safety of all within their space. This includes the psychological safety of Global Majority people,…
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The Impact of ‘Neurospicy’ on Neurodivergent Communities
The term “neurospicy” describes neurodivergent individuals but risks undermining the experiences of disabled individuals due to its euphemistic nature. Originating in the early 2020s to challenge medical labels, it contains racial-sexist connotations that can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. In contrast, “neurodivergent” is preferred for its inclusivity and empowerment.
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Me and white silence
The author reflects on the themes from “Me and White Supremacy” and “The Good Ally,” highlighting the importance of breaking white silence around racism, particularly in Autistic communities. They stress that ignoring racial issues marginalizes Autistic people of color and encourage white individuals to engage in anti-racism initiatives. Social justice requires immediate action rather than…
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Me and white fragility
These are some of my reflections from the amazing book and workbook from Layla F. Saad Me and White Supremacy White fragility is the discomfort and defensiveness experienced and expressed by a white person when confronted with information about racial injustice and inequality. My white fragility shows up around perfection – that I can only start…
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Deepening my understanding of white privilege
The author reflects on their evolving understanding of white privilege and the emotional challenges that come with acknowledging complicity in systemic oppression. They emphasize the importance of speaking out and engaging in anti-racist discussions, even in discomfort, while highlighting valuable anti-racism resources and promoting ongoing, imperfect learning.