What we’re about
This group is associated with the neurodissidence network blog: http://neurodissidence.org.uk/
It's a space by and for autistic and neurodivergent people. We're left-leaning, and see neurodissidence very much as a positive 'counter cultural' identity. We treat neurodivergence as a constellation of characteristics rather than a unified experience. This is a network for people of any (or neutral) gender, any race, cultural or class background, ND people of all ages are welcomed, whether self- or formally diagnosed.
We reject neoliberal modes of 'service provision', we're not intending to provide a service, we're opening a space for community to form by and for ND people - we have an organisers group (volunteers welcome) which takes ultimate responsibility for maintaining a habitable environment. The founding group is a mix of queer and straight, male and female. If you want something done, join the organisers' sub-group!
This is a pro-feminist, pro-queer, pro-trans, left-leaning space so if that doesn't suit you there are plenty of other autistic meetups for you to join. We don't want to have to create policies to limit disrespectful speech or behaviour. Don't shut down other people's concerns because you don't share them, try not to personalise other people's political speech inappropriately. Respect other people's experience, the way they choose to identify, and speak your truth calmly. Remember, we all need to give each other space.
This is a mixed space, please remember it's fine to form relationships but straight men should remember that it's uncomfortable for women to receive unwanted attention from men they don't know well. Respect all ages and backgrounds. If you are getting unwanted attention of any kind, let an organiser know so that the situation can be resolved.
If you're really not sure whether you're ND or not, feel free to join and explore. If you're clear that you're neurotypical and just want to understand more about neurodiversity this isn't an appropriate space for you but google is your oyster.
We are physically based in London and Southampton, we're starting with online meetups with a view to developing in-person communities locally as well as continuing regular online meetups for people unable to get to our physical locations.
