Supporting Black Autists (Like Me) for 2024 Autism Acceptance Month
Happy #AutismAcceptance Month, everyone!! I apologize for not posting enough content. Life has been hectic for me in 2024, but like everything else, I will survive and advance like the 1982-83 North Carolina State basketball team.
Thank you @sensorytoolhouse for showcasing your stim toys/accessories and helping me fall in love with the #ONORoller!! #AUCD2023 #Sensory #Stimming #ImStimming #BlackAutisticJoy #AutisticWhileBlack #ActuallyAutistic #Autizzy
Tokenism refers to giving the empty appearance of inclusivity or diversity, often to avoid criticism. In writing, tokenism refers to adding minorities to an otherwise homogenous cast (think a cast of white male characters in the West) in name or appearance only, without putting in the effort to develop these characters.
The problem with tokenism is that token characters are forced to be the sole representation of their particular group. The consequence is twofold. First, undeveloped token characters often become platforms for stereotypes. Think the sassy Black friend, the smart Asian friend, etc.
Second, token characters often become creator mouthpieces. Many of us have heard someone excuse their racism by saying they have a POC friend. The token character, the proverbial Friend of Color, can be made to excuse or even promote biases about their race, ethnicity, or culture.
There is no inherent issue with having only one of a particular identity, or having a white protagonist and a POC best friend. The problem comes when you make the character a spokesperson for their identity and/or saddle them with stereotypes and cliches. To avoid tokenism, write the character from a place of empathy, make them three dimensional, do your research on their identity, and avoid stereotypes.
Further Reading:
Why We Need More Directors of Color
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This Q&A is an excerpt from our General FAQ for Newcomers, which can be found in our new Masterpost of rules and FAQs. Take a look to learn more about writing POC representation!
Happy 6^2 birthday to me!!!! 36-50s are the average lifespan for #ActuallyAutistic folx. But no matter when the Creator calls me home, I will do my best to be the best me, enjoy the adventure, and leave a legacy.
Thank you all for the continued support!! If you want to show me #BirthdayLove:
#BlackAutisticJoy is when you jam on the drums at #SUSO2023 and feeling the rhythm after @victoriadjembe shows you the drum pattern only once each time
#Autizzy moment where memory, repetition, and #stimming comes together in an #intersectional blast!
#AskingAutistics: is it normal to shed tears during a #workout, even when you’re not in pain and everything is good emotionally? #BlackAutisticJoy #Autizzy #OneWorkoutAtATime
SN: my workout only lasted 7 min but this is the first time I’ve been to a UIC gym in 4 years, and any gym in months