4.07.23 – Autism Awareness Month: Our Differences Are Strengths

Friday, April 7, 2023

Autism Awareness Month: Our Differences Are Strengths

Working on our differences by being more inclusive means everyone is allowed to succeed in this work and thrive in life. We are all different. Some differences are apparent, while others may be harder to see. These hidden differences might cause us to make the wrong assumptions about each other.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and in recognizing neurodiversity, autism spectrum disorder is an often-misunderstood neurodevelopmental disorder. People with ASD exhibit characteristics we do not understand, which might trigger feelings that make us uncomfortable, upset, or frustrated.

Autism hinders peoples’ social interaction, as communication skills can be challenging, and it is crucial to recognize we have passengers who are autistic and co-workers who have high-functioning autism with mild characteristics of this disorder.

Today, autism is often diagnosed early, affecting about 1 in 44 children. It is unknown how many adults have this disorder, mainly because it was not diagnosed in the past like it is now, and many adults who were never diagnosed have learned to blend into society. Like other neurodevelopmental differences, autistic people sometimes do not want to share this about themselves, as they may fear being judged. Some well-known people have been open about their diagnosis, such as Elon Musk, Travis Meeks, Heather Kuzmich, Temple Gradin, Jerry Seinfeld, Darryl Hannah, and Clay Marzo, to name a few. Flight attendants who are autistic are high functioning and have worked extremely hard at becoming adept at blending in, but it can be exhausting. Though the characteristics may be subtle, they can sometimes feel alone and misunderstood.

Here are some of what was shared that might be helpful in helping to understand those with autism.

• Most of the time, being open about being autistic has been helpful, though some responses are “You do not look/act autistic.” or “Everybody is a little autistic.” A helpful response might be “Thank you for sharing this. “or “Is there anything you can share to help us work together and best support you?”
• Sometimes autistic people appear awkward, anti-social, or uncomfortable. For example, making eye contact or starting a conversation can be difficult. Like all neurodiverse people, masking it or becoming good at faking it is common. Still, people might be able to tell there is something different, so giving someone time, understanding, and approaching everyone with a welcoming heart is helpful.
• Non-verbal communication, such as facial expressions, can be difficult to read in others. Sometimes, non-verbal cues are missing, so if something needs communication, please tell us.
• Someone might not be particularly good at small talk but may love conversations. If someone struggles with starting conversations and may not know how to end them, just know the rhythm in the conversation just needs a bit of help from each of us and do not take missed non-verbal cues personally.
• Most people on the spectrum have what are called obsessive special interests. An obsession may be with a particular interest or rules, so tasks and topics might seem rigid and it might seem strange to you. It helps to show interest and be direct in the conversation while understanding our differences. Allow space to feel what walking in someone else’s shoes might be like.
• An attribute of being autistic is a lower threshold for stimuli, as if feeling overloaded. Stimming is a mannerism to regulate, like twirling hair or tapping fingers. Autistic people take it to a higher level. Some may have a tick or mannerism that looks strange. Many have learned to do something subtle to hide this, such as a fidget spinner or some other item to direct their attention to.
• The stereotypes, such as having no emotions, lacking empathy, or not needing social interactions, are wrong. It may be difficult to be in social situations or may be standoffish because of fear of not being accepted. Everyone needs friendships and acceptance.

We are all moving in this tide of inclusion and equity by looking at and listening to one another with genuine interest and understanding. People with autism and other neurodiverse abilities are valued for their strengths, and we celebrate Autistic Awareness Month in this collective endeavor to appreciate each of the unique talents and strengths that we bring to our work and this world.

In Solidarity,

Chaddrian Calhoun and Rhonda Curtright
APFA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
[email protected]