Exploring Systemic Issues and Empowerment in Autism

An episode that's breaking barriers in discussing neurodivergence and disability rights.

In Episode 110 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela dissect the “Make America Healthy Again” executive orders and how proposed wellness camps and health policies pose real threats to the disabled and autistic communities.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* We explore the dangerous history of neurodivergence under fascism, including how Hans Asperger’s legacy is tied to eugenic practices that categorized autistic people as "worthy" or "unworthy" of survival.

* Autism can’t be “cured” or erased—it’s genetic, natural, and integral to who we are.

* The episode tackles internalized ableism, especially among low-support-needs autistics, and critiques ABA therapy and its harmful behavioral roots, including Lovaas’s role in both ABA and gay conversion therapy.

* We examine how autism levels are classist and ableist, often reflecting one’s ability to perform in capitalist systems, not true support needs.

* Our hosts break down why Elon Musk, despite being autistic, does not represent the autistic community's values or advocacy.

* We spotlight the intersection of trans and disabled rights, emphasizing how current political policies dehumanize both groups.

* Finally, we debunk the persistent myth that vaccines cause autism, while reaffirming that autistic people have always existed—and always will.

“People are ‘the parasite class’ - because unless you’re independently wealthy and pull yourself up by your bootstraps and have millions or billions or trillions of dollars, you are somehow a drain on the ‘great system’ that is the United States.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“That’s how neurotypical people lead their lives. Neurotypical people don’t have an inner monologue. Neurotypical people are not pattern-followers. Neurotypical people trust the people above them socially to do what is in their best interest. These executive orders protect neurotypical people by getting rid of us pesky neurodivergent people that are somehow eating up neurotypical resources.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“We need people who will support us in the community, because we all need support. All humans need support. We are not individual islands. We all need to rely on each other, because the traditional systems will not take care of us.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explore how autism and neurodivergence are deeply embedded in the world around us, from harmful policies to the biases within autism levels. Tune in as we unpack how society’s treatment of neurodivergent and disabled individuals shapes our lives, and why supporting certain systems can harm our community. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your perspectives on the episode!

Show Notes:

Facebook Post – Dr. Angela KingdonA personal, autistic perspective on the dangers of the "Make America Healthy Again" initiative and its implications for disabled and neurodivergent communities.Read the post on Facebook

ASAN Statement – Autistic Self Advocacy Network“ASAN Condemns Announcement of President’s ‘Make America Healthy Again’ Commission”An official response outlining how the proposed policies are dangerous to autistic and disabled people and rooted in harmful ideologies. Read the full statement on ASAN’s website

Related Episodes:

Fighting Internalized Ableism

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