Caterina Diaco, Victoria Neilas, Bianca Salaris, Rose Wang Dr. Jeremy Colangelo GSWS 2223F June 23, 2023 Authoring Autism: Embracing Neurodiversity, Empowering Self-Advocacy, and Fostering Inclusivity Authoring Autism: On Rhetoric and Neurological Queerness by Melanie Yergeau offers a groundbreaking perspective by introducing the concept of neurological queerness and challenging deficit-based views on autism. Written by an autistic author, this book fosters awareness for understanding the experiences of autistic individuals. The book not only empowers autistic individuals to tell their own stories and challenge societal norms but also makes a strong case for embracing neurodiversity by advocating for more inclusive environments. Yergeau discusses how for individuals with autism, self-advocacy is not only essential but also a potent tool for promoting their needs, passions, and particular …show more content…
The importance of self-advocacy and providing a supportive and empowering environment for individuals with autism are both emphasized in the book. Self-advocacy plays a crucial role in enabling autistic individuals to share their stories, question social norms, and lessen stigma. Accurate information, the dismantling of preconceptions, and the encouragement of empathy are necessary to boost these efforts. The book gives a distinct viewpoint and may help the reader get insightful knowledge. On the other side, the use of rhetorical ideas and complex vocabulary limits those who are unfamiliar with the idea of neurological queerness. By limiting its ability to reach a wider audience, academia might act as a barrier to education. Increased accessibility will result in more accurate understanding of autism as well as a more welcoming and empowering