I am not disabled because I’m broken. I am – at least in part - disabled because the world doesn’t see me, doesn’t value Autistic culture, doesn’t validate my experiences.

When I say I’m disabled, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with being Autistic or otherwise Neurodivergent. I’m saying there’s big changes the world needs to do to value and support who we are. Reasonable adjustments don’t stop me from being disabled, but they do help level the playing field.

Embracing my disabled Autistic identity has allowed me to give myself a break and stop measuring myself up to neurotypical / allistic standards. It’s allowed me to feel good about applying for, and receiving Adult Disability Payment.