The battle against Ableism

Simply put, ableism is discrimination in favour of able-bodied people. It assigns value to people’s bodies and minds based on what Society dictates is normal. We must fight ableism, as it leads to an unfair Society. If left unchecked, the ultimate goal of ableism is eugenics and the dying out of all people that do not match up to the so called value of ‘normal’.We must also advocate against ableism because of the effect it can have on Autiistc people’s mental health if ableism is internalised.  They live their lives feeling inferior to the rest of society and feeling depressed and broken. When all that they are is different. Trying to ‘fit in’ can be damaging to mental health, like trying to hammer a square peg into a round hole. It leads to Autistic people trying to mask their true selves, which involves mimicing neurotypical mannerisms, interests and habits. After a while spent like this, the person becomes exhausted. This can lead to severe fatigue, where people just shut down, or this can mean that Autistic people lose control of themselves and meltdown. In extreme situations it can lead to self harm and worse.

It is important that Autistic advocates are spreading the message that it is not in Society’s interest either for Autistic people to be forced to fit in.  For years in schools and in the workplace this has been a common misconception. But the results are now clear for everyone to see. One thing is certain. Things must change. To the Autistic community it is obvious that proper adjustments and support must be put in place to enable Autistic people to live happier, healthier, fulfilling lives. And there can be no place for ableism in a compassionate and just Society.