Choosing Words That Empower: Respectful Language Around Autism

It's essential to address language we use around Autism.

To start off strong, I strongly encourage people to examine the term Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD, and consider what the name implies if you have never heard the term before. It gives a very negative connotation pathologizes Autism and literally calls it a disorder. And disorders we surely want to improve or fix, right? I, for one, find that language stigmatizing and demeaning. Instead, I use Autism or Autistic. Easy right? Lets keep going.