Autism is a difference, not a disorder Katie Forbes TEDxAberdeen

What is autism and how to talk about it?
Katie Forbes discusses the harmful impact of viewing autism as a disorder; something that needs to be repaired or healed. Katie invites viewers to look beyond this terminology and see autism for what it is, simply a difference. Not bad, not less – just different. Katie highlights the harms of masking and the importance of working towards an inclusive future for all. Katie Forbes is a journalist with a background in digital and social media marketing, based in Aberdeen, Scotland. Katie currently serves as Engagement Producer at Reach PLC and Creative Lead of the ReachAbility Committee.

Katie was diagnosed with autism at age 11 and is proud to be neurodivergent. Katie is the founder and director of Autistic Flair, an online community and resource center dedicated to amplifying autistic voices and creating an inclusive future for all. Through her website and Instagram page, Katie is well established as an advocate for the autism community. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

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