While the queer community’s abbreviation is already a tongue twister, I wish I could add one more letter to the mix. During Global Pride Month, we should celebrate our differences and embrace our diversity.
However, there is very little pride for many people in admitting not only to themselves but also to their loved ones, colleagues, and peers that they are neurodivergent.
The impact of stigma
We are still held back by painful stigmas, personal shame, and society’s lack of knowledge, making it difficult to be comfortable exploring how our brains work and what makes us think and process everyday life decisions and goals differently.
We are led to believe that if our executive functions differ from those of neurotypical individuals, it is acceptable to be marginalised by society¹.
Being neurodivergent and a member of the queer community adds another layer to the already complicated rainbow cake. Just as gender and sexual orientation often legitimise heteronormativity as the golden standard, neurotypicality is frequently considered the norm for the inner workings of our brains².
The Double Minority Effect
According to the latest research, there is a correlation between the LGBTQIA+ community and the prevalence of neurodivergence. This creates what is called a double minority effect – if you are already being ostracised for your gender identity and sexual orientation, you are more likely to suppress your neurodivergence to avoid further judgment and pain³.
How can we create neuro-inclusive spaces?
This double minority effect can be minimised by the creation of neuro-inclusive spaces. By spreading awareness and the right information about executive functions in our workplaces, schools, communities, and families, we have the opportunity to confront stereotypes and misconceptions about neurodiversity.
Adapting our neurotypical standards of communication and empowering workforces to be aware of members in their team who operate differently – not out of spite or stupidity – and how this affects their everyday lives, creates spaces where everyone can be honest about who they are and how they think⁴.
This month and every month, I wish each neurodivergent queer person feels the love and support from their community and allies to be brave enough to come out of the neurotypical closet.
About the author:
I’m the Operations Director here at CiM and have been part of the team since November 2022. I’m extremely passionate about
teaching and learning! I’ve managed blended learning teams, projects, and designed online learning material for various schools. At CiM, I’m responsible for managing daily operations, finances, budgets, and projects. Outside work you’ll find me lost in a book or on the action netball court.
References:
- Therapy Center. (n.d.). Brainbows: Proud to Be LGBT and Neurodivergent. Retrieved from https://www.therapycenter.com/brainbows
- Cognassist. (n.d.). Neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+: Gender identity, sexuality, neuro-differences and pride. Retrieved from https://www.cognassist.com/neurodiversity-lgbtqia
- Learnfully. (n.d.). The Link Between Neurodiversity and the LGBTQIA+ Community. Retrieved from https://www.learnfully.com/neurodiversity-lgbtqia
- The Brain Charity. (n.d.). LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity: the links between neurodivergence and being LGBTQ+. Retrieved from https://www.thebraincharity.org/lgbtqia-neurodiversity
Your writing is a true testament to your expertise and dedication to your craft. I’m continually impressed by the depth of your knowledge and the clarity of your explanations. Keep up the phenomenal work!