Thread by @AutisticFemb0y

So...

This whole fight to not consider Autism a disability, while noble in intent, is rooted in ableism.

In the idea that in order for autism to be seen as a neurological difference, we must separate it from disability.

#ActuallyAutistic

In this ableist idea that somehow if autism is called a disability, it means it's a bad thing. Or less "normal" or that if we call it a disability, it's suddenly a problem that needs to be fixed.

Accommodated disabilities are not problems. There's nothing wrong with disability.

When you bodly claim that Autism isn't a disability, you ignore the experiences of the *majority* of autistic people who are disabled because they are autistic.

It doesn't matter what model of disability you follow. This is the world we live in. In this world we're disabled.

You are welcome to claim that YOU are not disabled. Or that autism isn't *inherently* a disability. Or that some people are not disabled by autism.

But if you're fighting for autism to not be considered a disability... If you're arguing that autism *isn't* a disability...

Well, you're fighting a fight that's rooted in ableism.

So I understand that when y'all say "autism isn't a disability" you typically mean "autism isn't *always* a disability"

But that's not what you said.

Take a minute to think about what you DID say.

"Autism isn't a disability."

It really ignores the experiences of the *majority* of autistic people.

I'm legally and medically considered disabled.

I can't leave the house w/o accommodations.

I've got a service dog in training who will soon accompany me everywhere.

And you said "not a disability"

Think of how that confuses and pushes away parents of autistic children who we could help.

Imagine having a child who is autistic and severely disabled, logging on Twitter to hear from Autistic adults, and being told autism isn't a disability.

You think they'll keep listening?

This doesn't help the stereotype that the neurodiversity movement is only full of "high functioning aspies" who "ignore the most vulnerable autistic people"

I care deeply about the experiences of *all* Autistic people.

And I know you do too.

So please, consider the message.