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Feel like I'm being forced into autism/AS advocacy

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NYAspie
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24 Aug 2015, 9:23 pm

I know this should belong on another forum, but you'll find out why this is here soon enough.

At my work, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I have a fellow Aspie amongst my co-workers. While it was good at the start, I feel as though she's been trying to force me into AS/Autism advocacy.

While I know the purpose of this part of WP is to discuss if not promote self-advocacy for autism and AS, I don't think one should be forced into advocacy and/or activity by another person.

Your thoughts?


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ASPartOfMe
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24 Aug 2015, 10:03 pm

If you are being forced to do something you don't want to do that is the opposite of self-advocacy


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BudDickman
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26 Aug 2015, 3:02 am

There is advocacy, then there is identity politics. I'm a very private person, and would probably not participate in either. But, I may participate in advocacy, my wallet only, if the circumstances. I would never participate in any form of identity politics that would advocate for any special treatment.



SocOfAutism
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26 Aug 2015, 11:29 am

This has happened to me with other disabled people. I pass as non-disabled, but I usually tell co-workers and other students after awhile in case they notice a slip here or there. I don't want them to think I'm drunk or on drugs.

It's like when you're little and someone wants to have a blonde haired club with you because you both happen to have blonde hair. Um...okay. It's good to have solidarity, but you may not want to talk about it all the time.

I don't know what to tell you to do about it. Maybe be like, yes! right on brother/sister! and then change the subject?



syzygyish
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27 Aug 2015, 8:24 am

NYAspie wrote:
I know this should belong on another forum, but you'll find out why this is here soon enough.

At my work, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I have a fellow Aspie amongst my co-workers. While it was good at the start, I feel as though she's been trying to force me into AS/Autism advocacy.

While I know the purpose of this part of WP is to discuss if not promote self-advocacy for autism and AS, I don't think one should be forced into advocacy and/or activity by another person.

Your thoughts?


If you are a male, I definitely think you are being manipulated
If you are a female, ditto


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