A Reflective Question to Ponder
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A Reflective Question to Ponder is a central part of my advocacy work that challenges people to confront their assumptions about autism, neurodivergence, and the systems that define and control us. These questions aren’t meant to offer easy answers, but to provoke discomfort, spark critical thought, and invite dialogue that centers autistic perspectives. By asking what most people are afraid to ask, or haven’t yet considered, I aim to shift the narrative from compliance and observation to truth, justice, and liberation.
How might focusing on autistic experiences rather than traits shift the conversation from pathology to humanity?
In what ways does describing autism through “traits” risk reinforcing stereotypes and erasing the diversity of autistic lives?
What assumptions are we making when we believe traits are more “objective” or valid than the personal accounts of autistic people?
If the dominant description of autism came entirely from autistic people’s lived experiences, how different would our cultural understanding of autism be today?
My aim for this post is to foster a fruitful dialogue where people can explore others' perspectives to better understand why they hold those perspectives. All responses are valid, and I ask that this remain a judgement-free zone (this means no personal attacks or derogatory comments). If you leave a perspective, please do ask for others' perspectives. I value and reflect on all responses and may write about my experience with this post but will never identify anyone or use others' comments without express written permission.
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