Autism as a State of Being: My Perspective on the Uniqueness and Non-Curability of Autism

When I am told that someone has been "cured" of autism, I react with a sort of bemusement, akin to discovering the funniest joke. It’s simply because I chuckle, considering those who believe such claims to be the equivalent of an overzealous, ableist person looking for a way to bolster their sense of righteousness.

The Absurdity of Curing Autism

Given that no known method can cure a neurological condition, aside from the obvious cessation of all issues via death, I find the notion absurd. Such a claim often stems from individuals who want to feel good about doing something, akin to a self-satisfied neurotypical reveling in the idea of a “purging of pestilence.” It's a profound misunderstanding.

As someone who identifies as autistic, I do not consider myself broken or diseased. Rather, I see autism as a unique way of perceiving and experiencing the world. Just as some people require assistance to cope with their stress and anxiety or find better ways to function in a judgmental world, this is not a cure but an aid for daily living.

Historical Precedents of "Curing" Identities

Years ago, the misguided belief prevailed that homosexuality was a “disease” that needed to be cured, with gay people being reprogrammed to be straight. This, of course, failed, as sexual orientation is not something that can be “fixed.” Similarly, attempts to “cure” autism through reprogramming or conditioning to better fit in with neurotypical norms are misguided and harmful.

Historically, there were efforts to assimilate Native American children into mainstream society by forbidding them to speak their language and replacing their culture with that of "white people." These attempts only resulted in confusion, hurt, and anger, without actually fixing anything but the desire of the oppressors to homogenize the population.

Insight from My Great-Great Grandmother

The story of my great-great grandmother, who was taken from her people and sent to a boarding school, offers a poignant illustration. There, she was taught to be grateful for the chance to be with “white people” rather than her indigenous ancestors. Upon returning, she expressed profound resentment, saying, “I could not look up to someone who stole a mother’s children and think them better than my mother who cried for me every day.”

Just as her experience teaches us about the harmful consequences of attempting to “cure” a culture, so too does this illustrate the futility of trying to "cure" autism. Autism is not a disease that can or should be cured.

Towards Pride and Acceptance

When someone claims to be "cured," I respond with pride and happiness for them, even as I know that lessens the need for such a drastic measure. However, if a doctor, therapist, or any other person tries to tell me that I need to be cured, I would recognize immediately that they do not understand the essence of autism.

I am not "proud" of being autistic in the sense that I am "proud" of having a particular trait. Instead, I see it as just another aspect of who I am, akin to being right-handed or six feet tall. These characteristics do not need to be “fixed” or “cured.”

Conclusion: Autism and Neurodiversity

There is much more to being autistic than simply the condition itself. While we may need assistance in communicating and feeling a sense of belonging, this can be achieved through society without changing the person. If a cure is needed, it should be for neuroendocrine cancer, which would provide a greater service to humanity.

It is my hope that society can come to see autism not as a problem to be fixed, but as a unique and valuable way of thinking and experiencing the world.