What we lack most centrally in intellectual and developmental disability work and advocacy in North Carolina is the fierce urgency of now, to use and insist upon the meaning of the famous and essential phrase by Dr. King.
Category: Autism / Disability
You’re My Son
My son Nicholas is autistic, and he has echolalia. But what he says in repeated speech can carry as much meaning—and sometimes even more feeling—as the “right” words.
Community Inclusion and IDD: Prioritizing and Empowering Choice for the Disabled
Should policy-directed “best outcomes” from government officials and advocacy groups reduce, rather than enhance, choice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)—and sometimes trap them in unsafe, hostile environments?
Autistic Isolation, Connection, and Joy: Never Miss Dessert
Autistic adults, like adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities more generally, are not often seen as agents of love, joy, connection, relationship, and meaning for others. That’s because they’re not often seen at all.
The Value of Disabled Lives and Organs
Why might an autistic, intellectually disabled Black boy with Down syndrome be so much more valuable in death than in life? Because his parents made him an organ donor.
Autism Acceptance—and Celebration
Autism is still largely an unknown, even among generally well-educated people. Autism awareness and education still matter a lot, and they are prerequisites for acceptance. Autism awareness and autism acceptance are both essential.
Intellectually Disabled Adults and COVID Vaccine Prioritization
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at greater risk—three times greater than the general population—of COVID-19 complications and/or death. … More
Are Autistic and Intellectually Disabled People Worthwhile Community Members—or Aren’t They?
I have been reading the proposed changes to North Carolina’s Innovations waiver services and supports, which are designed for individuals … More
No “Because” but Love—Intellectual Disability, Identity, Representation, and Value
Autism and disability pride movements assert unique cultures and identities. Can intellectually disabled people be more openly and equitably represented … More
Sunday with My Son
These weekend wintry early mornings in which at times I’m feeling a little drawn—hardly inclined to roll out of bed, … More
Ray Hemachandra at Golden Moon Circles 