human
I said that, "autistic people shouldn't have to live in fear" and I also said, "autism is a gift!" and another girl said back to me, "Say that to the nonverbal kid, banging his head, wearing diapers in the corner!" do you see any issues with this conversation?
assistant
I think discussing and representing autism can be very challenging and sensitive, and it’s important to discuss autism with consideration and empathy for all people on the spectrum. It sounds like you and the other girl were having a sensitive conversation, and unfortunately it became confrontational. There are many different forms and intensities of autism spectrum disorder, and you should never make negative generalizations about autism or people with autism. It would be helpful to spend some time educating yourself on spectrum disorders and representing them responsibly and humanely. Here are some resources about autism and disability rights: http://autismawareness.org/disability-rights-and-autism/ https://www.ncdCapabilitiesProject