Autism & Neurodivergence

Autism and other states of neurodivergence (an identity term used to mean individuals whose neurophysiology differs from normative expectations, and who make up a neurominority) are increasingly seen as natural variations of human diversity. Approaching autism from a strength-based (as opposed to deficits-focused lens) is vital for the well-being of this community. Years ago, Ivan Illich, a philosopher, social critic, and theologian, pointed out that “social labeling has been medicalized to the point where all deviance has to have a medical label.” Specific to autism, Donna Williams wrote "...from the start, from the time someone came up with the word ‘autism’, the condition has been judged from the outside [ ] and not from the inside according to how it is experienced." These quotes point out that the medical model of disability has arisen out of neuronormative assumptions from a neuromajority population... in particular that there is a right way of being and that neurotypical abilities are better. This setup underpins ableism – discrimination and social prejudice. As greater recognition of diversity in neurotypes grows these assumptions are being challenged. EARTH's team includes autists and other neurodivergent persons. As part of EARTHs overarching mission of respecting, celebrating, and assuring that all people have equal voice and agency, we are committed to working together to build programs and initiatives to support this community.

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