Today, 2nd April 2025, is World Autism Day, and all United Nations members globally recognise it. Nations everywhere come together to recognise the suffering those with autism endure and celebrate their unique contributions and achievements. Originally, the United Nations created World Autism Day to “highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.” Autism is a neurological condition with many different symptoms that appear in diverse combinations. These include sensitivity to touch, light, sound, taste, and smells, as well as struggles with social awareness. The vast combinations of ways autism appears in individuals constitute the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For many decades, people subjected ASD sufferers to appalling treatment. They ranged from flat-out denial of their needs to outright torture at the hands of since-disgraced doctors like Hans Asperger. World Autism Day helps recognize the hurdles ASD sufferers overcame to simply receive recognition, help, and care. It also serves as a crucial platform to shift the narrative from deficit-based perspectives to strength-based ones.

Embracing Neurodiversity: A Shift in Perspective

The term “neurodivergent” has gained significant traction in recent years, and for good reason. It represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and talk about neurological differences. While “Autism Spectrum Disorder” (ASD) is a medical diagnosis, “neurodivergent” is a broader, more inclusive term. Neurodivergence refers to the natural variation in the human brain regarding sociability, learning, attention, mood, and other mental functions. It encompasses autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions. Essentially, it acknowledges that brains function in diverse ways, none of which are inherently “wrong.”

“Divergents” as a Term of Empowerment and Inclusion

The term “divergents,” as we use it, is a shorthand, a powerful label for those who exist outside the neurotypical majority. It emphasizes the inherent value of these different ways of thinking and experiencing the world. It’s a term that rejects the medical model, which often focuses on deficits and impairments, and instead highlights the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to society. Why this shift in language? Because language matters. “Disorder” can imply something is inherently broken or needs fixing. “Neurodivergent” and “divergents” celebrate the diversity of the human mind. They promote a more positive and empowering view, recognising that differences are not deficits.

Launching the “Dynamic, Daring and Dazzling Divergents” Newsletter

This World Autism Day, we’re not just acknowledging the challenges; we’re celebrating the triumphs. We’re launching a new initiative: a newsletter called “Dynamic, Daring and Dazzling Divergents.” This newsletter will showcase the incredible achievements and contributions of neurodivergent individuals worldwide. We believe that every story deserves to be heard. Every success, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to breathtaking artistic creations, from innovative entrepreneurial ventures to everyday acts of kindness, we want to share the diverse accomplishments of our community.

We invite you, our readers, to participate. If you know someone who is neurodivergent and whose story deserves to be told, please get in touch. Nominate them to be featured in our newsletter. Let us amplify their voices and share their experiences with the world. We want to highlight the dynamic nature of neurodivergent minds, their daring approaches to problem-solving, and the dazzling creativity they bring to every aspect of life. Let’s move beyond awareness and embrace celebration.

The Importance of Informed Support

World Autism Day is a time for unity and support, but it’s also a time for critical reflection. One organisation that has consistently drawn criticism from the autistic community is Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks has historically promoted a narrative of autism as a devastating disease, focusing on finding a “cure” and portraying autistic individuals as burdens. This approach has been deeply harmful, perpetuating negative stereotypes and ignoring the lived experiences of autistic people.

Advocating for True Representation

World Autism Day is a time for unity and support, but it’s also a time for critical reflection. One organisation that has consistently drawn criticism from the autistic community is Autism Speaks.

Autism Speaks has historically promoted a narrative of autism as a devastating disease, focusing on finding a “cure” and portraying autistic individuals as burdens. This approach has been deeply harmful, perpetuating negative stereotypes and ignoring the lived experiences of autistic people.

Many autistic individuals and advocacy groups have condemned Autism Speaks for:

Lack of Autistic Representation: Historically, the organisation has had very few autistic people in leadership positions.

Focus on “Cure” Research: Funding research aimed at preventing or curing autism rather than supporting autistic individuals and their families.

Negative Portrayal of Autism: Using fear-mongering and stigmatizing language that paints autism as a tragedy.

Lack of Support for Autistic Adults: Focusing primarily on early intervention and children, neglecting the needs of autistic adults.

Who Would We Suggest?

Instead of supporting Autism Speaks, we advocate for organisations that prioritise the rights, dignity, and well-being of autistic individuals. Some of the organisations we wholeheartedly support include:

• The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN): A national grassroots disability rights organisation run by and for autistic people. ASAN focuses on advocacy for systemic change and empowering autistic individuals.
• The Autism Women’s Network (AWN): Dedicated to supporting autistic women, girls, and gender diverse individuals, providing resources and building community.
• The Neurodiversity Foundation: Works to advance neurodiversity acceptance and inclusion in education, employment, and community settings.

These organisations are led by autistic people or have strong autistic representation, and they focus on self-advocacy (empowering autistic individuals to speak for themselves and advocate for their needs); acceptance and inclusion (promoting a society that embraces neurodiversity and provides accessible support); community building (creating spaces where autistic people can connect and support each other); and education and awareness (providing accurate information about autism and challenging harmful stereotypes).

This World Autism Day, let’s pledge to support organisations that truly represent and respect the autistic community. Let’s amplify the voices of autistic individuals and celebrate their unique contributions to our world. Let us recognise and embrace the Dynamic, Daring and Dazzling Divergents that enrich our lives every day.