Why there is so much divisiveness within the “Autistic Community” in 2026 and what we can do about it

I think I understand why there's so much disagreement and confusion within the autistic community. 

Most of our disagreements come down to different philosophical perspectives, not different views on how autistic people should be treated or how important it is for autistic people to be supported.

A few examples of what I mean by different philosophical perspectives... 

Using person first language vs identity first language, whether or not autism is a disability (if we personally feel disabled by our own autism or not), and if we should be looking for the root cause of autism or a "cure" (there are plenty of autistic people who have said they want to find one).

Here's the problem I've recently started noticing... 

These philosophical discussions require room for all perspectives to exist. Equally. 

No autistic perspective should overshadow another autistic perspective... ESPECIALLY when it comes to how we see our own autism.

BUT, these conversations tend to happen in the context of advocacy, which is all about action. Where decisions need to be made in terms of how we advocate as a community so we impact real, meaningful change.

But during these discussions, most of us are desperately trying to be seen, heard, and understood... while simultaneously desperately fighting for our lives to impact change so we can get the support we need to survive. 

And this is where we get into trouble and where I think the heart of the conflict resides...

Since we have so many conflicting philosophical perspectives on autism as a community, we end up having conflicting perspectives on how we advocate as a community.

I see this as a critical problem that needs solving if we're going to make meaningful progress together. 

And I do think it's solvable. 

But only if enough of us see it for what it is and are willing to listen to each other. Really listen. So we understand each other and stop shutting others down when they share perspectives that are different from ours.

There's room for all of our voices... IF we make the room.