Every April, Autism Acceptance Month provides an opportunity to celebrate, uplift and support autistic individuals. While past conversations often centered on “awareness,” today it’s important we shift the focus toward acceptance – recognising autism as a natural variation in human cognition rather than a condition to be ‘fixed’ or ‘cured.’
What Is Neuro-Affirming Support?
Adopting a neuro-affirming perspective, we embrace autism as an integral part of identity. Rather than viewing autism as a collection of deficits, taking a neuro-affirming approach, we recognise the strengths, challenges and unique ways autistic individuals experience the world.
Biala’s neuro-affirming interest group supports staff to adopt a neuro-affirming approach through staff education and training. Under this approach, therapists are supported to prioritise:
• Self-advocacy and autonomy: Respecting autistic individuals’ choices, needs and communication styles.
• Accommodations: Our approach seeks to make the world more accessible rather than forcing autistic people to conform.
• Strengths-based: We recognise and celebrate the strengths and unique value of autistic individuals, such as deep focus and creativity.
Moving Beyond Awareness to Action
Awareness is knowing that autism exists. We believe in moving beyond this, and advocate for autism acceptance in our communities. Acceptance means we ultimately create an inclusive society.
Here’s how we can all take action:
1. Listen to Autistic Voices
Too often, conversations about autism exclude autistic people themselves. At Biala, we adopt a person-centre approach and ensure we centre the voices and experiences of Autistic people. In our communities, we can all seek out autistic advocates, writers and content creators who share their lived experiences and ensure our education comes directly from Autistic individuals and neuro-affirming sources.
2. Rethink Stereotypes
Autism – like all collective labels – is diverse—there is no single “autistic experience.” Some autistic people speak verbally, while others might use augmentative and alternative communication. Autistic people can have varied support needs and strengths across a variety of areas – understanding this diversity helps break down harmful myths and stereotypes.
3. Support Accessibility and Inclusion
Inclusion goes beyond awareness campaigns. It means advocating for sensory-friendly workplaces, flexible education systems and social spaces that respect neurodivergent needs. Making simple accommodations the norm – like offering quiet areas, providing clear written instructions, or allowing for alternative communication - can make a world of difference and will build more inclusive communities.
4. Challenge Harmful Narratives
At Biala we reject deficit-based language in favour of respectful terminology. It’s important to challenge and steer away from organisations and bodies who promote cures, adopt language such as ‘suffering from autism’ and who promote masking over autism acceptance.
5. Celebrate Neurodiversity
Autistic people bring immense value to our communities. Their unique perspectives enrich our communities, workplaces and relationships. Autism Acceptance Month is a time to celebrate autistic strengths, culture and contributions—not just acknowledge challenges.
Ultimately, true acceptance means building a world where autistic individuals are respected, supported and empowered to be themselves. This April, we call on everyone to move beyond awareness and actively work towards a more inclusive and affirming society - not just for one month, but every day.
