Category: Social Justice

  • Intersections of Sociology with Crip Theory and Critical Disability Studies and Mad Studies Symposium

    Intersections of Sociology with Crip Theory and Critical Disability Studies and Mad Studies Symposium

    On June 11, 2025, the University of Southampton will host a hybrid symposium for PGR and PhD scholars interested in Sociology, Crip Theory, Critical Disability Studies, and Mad Studies. Featuring keynote speakers and panel discussions, the event will include live BSL interpretation and provide lunch for in-person attendees. Registration is required.

  • OCD Family Podcast: Insights from Katie Munday

    OCD Family Podcast: Insights from Katie Munday

    This is the transcript from the recent OCD Fam podcast. You can listen via podcast here and via YouTube here. Summary The OCD Fam podcast featured a conversation between me and Nicole. I shared updates on my busy life and advocacy work. I discussed the importance of joy in healthcare interactions and the challenges of…

  • Understanding the Supreme Court’s Definition of Womanhood

    Understanding the Supreme Court’s Definition of Womanhood

    On April 16, the UK Supreme Court defined ā€œwomanā€ biologically, limiting protections for trans women and marginalized communities. This decision perpetuates patriarchal norms, harming those who don’t conform to narrow gender definitions. Advocates urge collective action: supporting vulnerable groups, attending protests, and collaborating to combat state-endorsed violence and promote inclusivity.

  • The Search for a Unifying Term in Autism

    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.

  • Embracing Radical Research in Academia

    Embracing Radical Research in Academia

    The author identifies as a radical researcher feeling out of place in academia, criticizing its foundations in oppressive systems like white supremacy and patriarchy. They question whether reform is possible or if abolition is necessary, advocating for emotional intelligence and connection in knowledge acquisition. The author finds hope in a community of like-minded colleagues challenging…

  • Understanding the Gender Gap in Autism Diagnosis

    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.

  • Rejecting Academic Norms: Trans and Autistic Voices Matter

    Rejecting Academic Norms: Trans and Autistic Voices Matter

    I tried to write the positionality and reflexivity section of my PhD thesis today (the bit that tells the readers who I am and what lenses I see this work through). What I wanted to write is “I am trans, I am autistic, get over it”. I would love to say this, but of course…

  • Challenging Illusions of Inclusivity in Workspaces

    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,…

  • Closing Spectrum 10K: A Victory for Autistic Advocacy

    Closing Spectrum 10K: A Victory for Autistic Advocacy

    Today the Autism Research Centre have published the Spectrum 10K consultation and what they plan to do next. During their consultation period they heard from over 500 Autistic people and parents/carers of Autistic children.The gap between the consultation finishing and their making the consultation public has been a long one (read Unpaused and Still Unethical).…

  • The Impact of ‘Neurospicy’ on Neurodivergent Communities

    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.