Neurodiversity and a More Inclusive Way Forward

Neurodiversity is the idea that differences in how people think, learn, communicate, and experience the world are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing these differences as problems to be fixed, people should be encouraged to pursue a deeper understanding of neurodiversity as part of the many ways human beings exist and express themselves as a natural part of everyday life. It is integral that an individual’s neurological differences be supported and built upon in ways that help them to feel included, valued, and capable of using their strengths for creative, professional, and everyday purposes.

Autism affects the way a person communicates, learns, behaves, and experiences the world, with every individual who has it presenting unique variations and needs. ADHD, or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, can affect focus, impulsivity, and the ability to begin or complete tasks. Dyslexia affects the way individuals understand written language. In all three cases, these neurodiversity-related differences are often misunderstood as a lack of intelligence or laziness. However, every neurodivergent individual brings unique strengths, perspectives, ideas, and ways of navigating the world that make our communities stronger. These strengths can include a deeper attention to detail that might otherwise be overlooked, especially in individuals who hyperfixate on specific topics or naturally view the world through a different lens. A more meticulous way of thinking can create stronger continuity, a deeper understanding, and a closer examination of language, designs, and ideas. Treating neurodiversity as something broken needing to be fixed pushes people into systems that are more reactionary than truly supportive. Therefore, the focus should not be on fixing these disabilities, but instead on fixing the barriers that prevent people from expressing themselves and furthering their own abilities and skills.

The existence of neurodiversity pushes for the creation of environments that are accessible and inclusive, where individuals have the right to showcase their unique skills that derive from the differences they have, rather than being expected to conform to societal norms. Whether someone is disabled or not, individuality matters because it makes a person who they are.

Asking people to conform builds upon social barriers, creates a less creative world, and encourages the same deficit-based opinions and stereotypes that people continue to place on those with neurological differences. While certain systems are already in place that encourage universal design and equal treatment, it is important to ensure that these services are actually followed through with and are not simply ideas that are ignored under the radar.

The environment a person lives in every day will help shape them into who they are. If that environment includes barriers that affect an individual’s ability to function in everyday life, that reflects a lack of equality. Discriminatory behavior is unacceptable. Public systems, such as education, hiring, workplace, healthcare, transportation, and communication systems, have to implement changes that ensure equal rights for everyone, no matter their differences. A strong example would be incorporating education on disability rights and psychological differences into the school curriculum. An employer rejecting someone based on their neurodivergent background is discrimination, and it fails to account for the skills a person has that could be effective in the workplace. Environments cannot be built around the assumption that everyone functions identically. Instead, they need to be adaptable for anybody, so that people can express themselves in the ways that work best for them. Support needs to be framed as something that can be given to anybody, regardless of the way they view the world, understand, or act.

The Center for Independent Living believes that everyone deserves a chance to show the world what they are capable of. Embracing neurodiversity is an opportunity to unlock innovation, strengthen communities, and ensure that individuals are empowered to contribute in ways that reflect who they are. The inclusion of individuals who have disabilities into everyday activities allows for a greater level of contribution and new perspectives. You can learn more about neurodiversity through the blog posts and events we have planned throughout the rest of April.