An introduction to Neurodiversity and Pride in Difference.

This is a term created by advocates, some of whom were Autistic, and all with various differences to the neuro-normative majority that we now call Neurotypical Society. They were searching for a term to encompass the diverse collection of co-occurring conditions that often exist alongside Autism. (e.g. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, PDA)Neurodiversity is the different way that everybody thinks. It indicates that there are different types of brain:  People may be part of a group with a shared neurotype. The largest of these groups is neuro-typical while others of a different neurotype are neurodivergent. Autistic people have this neurological difference to neurotypical people. It is a lifelong difference, rather than just a disability. 

Neurodiversity as a term encompasses more than just the deficits of the medical model.It shows the human side of the social model. The personal side to Autism, ADHD and other co-occurring conditions.  Furthermore, people that think differently, come up with unique and different ways of doing things. It is these unique ideas that have fuelled some of the greatest human discoveries and achievements. 

This leads into the concepts of Autistic Pride and Pride in Difference and Diversity in general. The key to Autistic identity (or any Neurodivergent identity) is having a shared identity with a whole group of people: In this case the Autistic Community. Autistic Pride is about giving the next generation strong role models and giving them hope.  It is about giving all the generations of Autistic people the support they need, for all of their diverse and neurodivergent needs. This is where Autistic led organisations come in. For years now, the summer months are a time for the Autistic community to come together in large gatherings to celebrate Autistic Pride. These events are very special, in that they enable Autistic people to be among their own. The benefits to mental health of sharing the positives of Autistic life are incredible. It can be a very emotional thing for an Autistic person to visit an event, especially for the first time.  Diagnosis does not need to be a terrible thing full of grief, for parents or for Autistic people themselves. It is an explanation of our origins, gives a reason why things have happened to us in our lives, the key to why we are different. Understanding our Autism is a way for us to release any feelings of self-blame or guilt.It is a doorway to Autistic people understanding themselves through others who share their neuro-type. And in learning from the Autistic community and contributing to the understanding of others ourselves, we can come to have pride in what we are and in the strengths that we have shown through adversity.  Having a shared Autistic identity is important, as it means we are never truly alone. Often what we need is a sense of purpose and to be useful to others. And it is our mission at London Autism Group Charity to help those that are feeling lost and show them that they are part of the Autistic community. Our charity is moving ahead with opening local community cafes to create safe spaces where Autistic people and their families can meet in person.  These monthly meetings of the Autistic community will champion Autistic pride and allow people to experience true Autism Acceptance.