Perspectives on Neurodivergence: A two-part op-ed series
The Rainbow Infinity has become the most widely accepted and inclusive symbol for the neurodivergent community as a whole, encompassing Autism (ASD), ADHD, and more. The infinity loop signifies the complexity and continuous nature of neurodiversity. The rainbow represents the spectrum of neurotypes, pride, and inclusivity. It is preferred by many neurodivergent advocates over an alternative symbol, the puzzle piece, because it focuses on acceptance, celebration, and the idea that neurodivergence is a natural form of human variation.
Neurodivergent individuals face multiple forms of bias, from unemployment and lack of housing to social rejection and encouraged or forced masking, due to atypical but natural behavior. Individual identities sometimes experience the same forms of bias.
However, discrimination does not always exist in a vacuum; it can be magnified by other forms of bias based on identity/orientation, race, gender, or even economic status. This bias not only limits opportunities for neurodivergents but also robs society of unique ideas and talent.
This two-part blogpost series consists of op-eds that were originally drafted as part of Media Advocacy Projects in the Human Rights Practice MA program at the University of Arizona. These topics are heavily influenced by the lived experience of the authors.
Corinne Burbank: I recently completed my MA in Human Rights Practice. My original work was created as part of a Media Advocacy course in which I wished to draw attention to employment struggles that many neurodivergents face. Most of my career has been spent in IT, and being neurodivergent myself, I came to realize that I simply have different operating specifications from many of my peers.
You can read the op-ed at:
We Are All Computers: Some of us just have different operating systems
Olga Fritz-Pulford: I am an autistic graduate student currently completing my Masters in Human Rights Practice at U of A. My op-ed was originally created for an elective course focusing on the human rights of LGBTQ+ people and during this course, I realized that there was a strong commonality between neurodivergent people like me and the LGBTQ when it comes to hiding one's true identity in public spaces.
You can read the op-ed at:
Masking and Closeting: How neurodivergent and LGBTQ people fake another identity to stay safe and successful