On Pride:
Today I happened to notice someone with a round button pin stuck on his bag. It had a white background and in rainbow lettering it said "Autistic Pride" and an infinity symbol. I did a double take. What is there to be so proud of? Since when is a disability a cause for bragging rights? If the button had been for autism awareness or a wonderful organization such as "Autism Speaks," it would be a noble thing to wear. Or even some generic statement about overcoming autism or adversity would be honorable. But why would someone be proud of something that was not chosen, is not desirable, and makes life difficult for so many people?
It would be the same as 'Tumor Pride.' Not being proud of preventing cancer, being in remission, regaining strength in spite of the odds, but proud of the illness-causing mass itself. It is ridiculous to consider.
Being proud of anything that was not a choice at some point is just idiotic. Even pride in race, sexuality, ability, or social standing is suspect. I am, like many other queers, proud of the accomplishments made by same sex couples regarding our civil rights. I am proud of the gay people who stare down adversity and unflinchingly demand justice. But to be proud of being gay itself is just a waste of energy.
Why be proud of something you didn't ask for and can't change?
I am not bashing anyone who has autism, cancer, is queer, or a non-white ethnicity. I just want to place the pride where it belongs: In accomplishment. Have professional pride. Pride in a job well done. Pride in the positive change you have brought about FOR autism, or FOR your fellow queers. Pride in helping to reduce the stigma of having a disease or disability. Pride in treating others with decency and respect. Pride in growing your own sustainable garden. Pride in giving back to your community. Pride in building a house for the homeless. Pride in standing up for someone who cannot do it themselves.
By all means, be proud. Just be proud of verbs, not adjectives.
Today I happened to notice someone with a round button pin stuck on his bag. It had a white background and in rainbow lettering it said "Autistic Pride" and an infinity symbol. I did a double take. What is there to be so proud of? Since when is a disability a cause for bragging rights? If the button had been for autism awareness or a wonderful organization such as "Autism Speaks," it would be a noble thing to wear. Or even some generic statement about overcoming autism or adversity would be honorable. But why would someone be proud of something that was not chosen, is not desirable, and makes life difficult for so many people?
It would be the same as 'Tumor Pride.' Not being proud of preventing cancer, being in remission, regaining strength in spite of the odds, but proud of the illness-causing mass itself. It is ridiculous to consider.
Being proud of anything that was not a choice at some point is just idiotic. Even pride in race, sexuality, ability, or social standing is suspect. I am, like many other queers, proud of the accomplishments made by same sex couples regarding our civil rights. I am proud of the gay people who stare down adversity and unflinchingly demand justice. But to be proud of being gay itself is just a waste of energy.
Why be proud of something you didn't ask for and can't change?
I am not bashing anyone who has autism, cancer, is queer, or a non-white ethnicity. I just want to place the pride where it belongs: In accomplishment. Have professional pride. Pride in a job well done. Pride in the positive change you have brought about FOR autism, or FOR your fellow queers. Pride in helping to reduce the stigma of having a disease or disability. Pride in treating others with decency and respect. Pride in growing your own sustainable garden. Pride in giving back to your community. Pride in building a house for the homeless. Pride in standing up for someone who cannot do it themselves.
By all means, be proud. Just be proud of verbs, not adjectives.
but i am waiting to see whenever you can share photos!
and check out SGNY, the board cheap hanging free the 23?
would be lovely to see you