Why the world needs to embrace neurodiversity with dignity and respect

To define autism solely in terms of challenges is a limited and incomplete view. Many autistic individuals possess remarkable abilities in fields like mathematics, music, memory, design, and pattern recognition. Photograph used for representational purposes only
| Photo Credit: AP

Every year on June 18, the world observes Autistic Pride Day, a day not of mourning or sympathy, but of celebration. It is a day that highlights the unique identities, strengths, and perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum. Unlike many awareness days that focus on deficits or challenges, Autistic Pride Day stands apart: it is about empowerment, acceptance, and embracing neurodiversity.

What is autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and how individuals process information. But to define autism solely in terms of challenges is a limited and incomplete view. Many autistic individuals possess remarkable abilities in fields like mathematics, music, memory, design, and pattern recognition.

The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of experiences from individuals requiring substantial support in daily life to those living independently and thriving in their careers and relationships.

Why take pride in autism?

To some, the word “pride” might seem unusual when associated with a diagnosis. But the pride celebrated today is rooted in the idea of neurodiversity — the understanding that variations in brain function are a natural and valuable part of human diversity. Just as we embrace differences in culture, language, and background, we must also embrace neurological differences.

For too long, many autistic individuals have heard messages that they are “broken” or need to be “fixed.” Autistic Pride Day challenges that narrative. It declares that they are whole, valuable, and worthy of inclusion – just as they are.

Different, not less

Temple Grandin, a renowned autistic advocate and scientist, once said: “Different, not less.”

This simple phrase captures the essence of Autistic Pride Day. Autistic individuals often see the world in ways that others don’t – noticing patterns, solving problems creatively, and expressing themselves in beautifully unique ways.

These are not deficits; they are differences. With the right support and inclusive attitudes, these differences can thrive.

The role of society

Many of the challenges faced by autistic individuals stem not from autism itself, but from societal barriers: limited access to inclusive education, workplace discrimination, sensory-inaccessible public spaces, and pervasive misunderstandings.

Autistic Pride Day is a call to action especially for those outside the medical or caregiving community to be active allies. It urges us to:

• Listen to autistic voices

• Learn from lived experiences

• Support inclusive education and workplaces

• Design environments that accommodate sensory needs

• And most importantly, to treat every individual with dignity and compassion

From awareness to acceptance

While awareness of autism has grown in recent decades, we must move further toward acceptance, advocacy, and equity. The goal is not to “fix” autistic people, but to change the systems that exclude them.

This journey starts with conversations at home, continues through inclusive public policies, and leads to a society where autism is respected as a part of the human spectrum not a deviation from it.

A message of hope

Autistic Pride Day reminds us that every mind matters. In a world that often prioritises sameness, neurodiverse individuals bring authenticity, creativity, and depth. Whether as artists, scientists, thinkers, or simply as individuals navigating life in their own way ,they deserve to be seen, respected, and celebrated.

This June 18, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a world where neurodiversity is honoured, differences are embraced, and every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

(Dr. Javeed Zabiullah is a consultant psychiatrist at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. [email protected])