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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…
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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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Rejecting Academic Norms: Trans and Autistic Voices Matter
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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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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).…
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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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Debunking the “COVID-19 Autism Risk”
Neilson’s work continues to add to growing information about how COVID-19 continues to harm pregnant people and their unborn babies. Unfortunately, this journalist decided to use a skewed version of this work to undermine Autistic people and pregnancy care researchers. The misogyny and ableism are mixed into a fine slurry in this article.
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2024 in Review: Advocacy Work and Community Connections
2024 was another very busy year for me and a very turbulent time for many of us worldwide. In the UK political violence towards transgender people, disabled people and other marginalised groups has continued to grow. The ban on puberty blockers for all transgender young people is the most recent attempt to bring us down.…
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Open Letter Against Puberty Blocker Ban
The team at AIM for the Rainbow have written an open letter airing our concerns about the puberty blocker ban. The open letter at a glance: The Autistic community widely and with great indignation condemns the recent ban on puberty blockers for transgender youth and demands its immediate reversal. We call on the government to…