by Hatty Taylor and Nozomi Tolworthy, Diversity and Inclusion Advisors at the University of Reading
International Trans Day of Visibility is an annual event, occurring on 31st March that is dedicated to celebrating trans people and raising awareness of discrimination faced globally by people whose gender does not align with that which was assigned to them at birth.
World Autism Awareness Week (29th March – 4th April) is an opportunity to celebrate individuals with autism as well as encouraging awareness and education of challenges faced by those individuals.
You may think these two events are unconnected, but we would like to shine a light on the unique experiences of people with autism, who also identify as trans or non-binary.
Recent data suggests that trans and non–binary people are ‘three to six times as likely to be autistic as cisgender people are. According to the largest study yet to examine the connection, gender-diverse people are also more likely to report autism traits and to suspect they have undiagnosed autism.’ An analysis of five unrelated databases that all include information about autism, mental health and gender has led to these conclusions. You can read more about it here – Largest study to date confirms overlap between autism and gender diversity.
The National Autistic society also highlights this intersection of identities, and shares some personal stories which can really help us to understand the unique experiences of those who identify as trans, non-binary and as a person with autism:
Sophie Gribben, a non-binary autistic person, talks about celebrating Pride Month. They said:
“One of the things I have difficulty with is attending Pride festivities. I am sensitive to noise, and crowds, but if I am properly accommodated then I really enjoy myself!”
Dr Wenn Lawson, autistic advocate, researcher, and psychologist, said:
”The non-autistic world is governed by social and traditional expectations, but we may not notice these or fail to see them as important. This frees us up to connect more readily with our true gender.”
Researchers across several Universities contributed to a paper – Autism and transgender identity: Implications for depression and anxiety, which looks into this connection, and also highlights the increased risk of common mental health issues for people with these intersecting characteristics.
In addition to the increased risk of mental health issues, trans people who also have autism often face barriers from health care professionals, who can undermine their trans identity, as explained in this article – The link between autism and trans identity It also highlights the ways in which the implications of this correlation are proving problematic and sometimes tragic for trans, autistic communities. Please be advised that the article relates to Kayden Clarke, a trans autistic man who was killed by police in the US, and therefore contains some upsetting content that you may not want to read.
Intersectionality
Intersectionality – This word has been used a lot more recently. Here is short video where Kimberlé Crenshaw talking about what intersectionality means and the origin of the term.
It is crucial that we understand that people do not have protected characteristics in isolation, that marginalised groups exist within marginalised groups, and by beginning to hold these conversations, we create space for learning about each other, networking, supporting one another. Multiple protected characteristics can also influence each other, exacerbate challenges and make barriers even taller than they would be without additional considerations. By talking about identities within marginalised groups, we can make steps in starting to see each other as the complex, multi-faceted beings that we are, with unique experiences and identities.
It is important to note that though there may be a higher correlation of autistic individuals in the trans community this in no way suggests that the majority of trans individuals should be assumed to have autism, or that the majority of individuals with autism are trans. It’s important to recognise that larger more comprehensive studies need to be conducted on the topic which better reflect trans and autistic people’s views and experiences and how these experiences overlap.
Events
We have collated several external online events which you can attend in the coming days/weeks to learn more about autism, and trans identities. Join celebrations and even watch a film screening. Lockdown has never looked so exciting!
- Thinking Differently about Autism at Work
Employers Network for Equality & Inclusion (ENEI)
Wed, 31 March 2021, 09:30 – 12:30 BST
UoR are members of ENEI, and all staff and students can register for FREE using their ‘@reading.ac.uk’ email address via this link
- Bi, Trans & Non-Binary Intersectionality: a Parallel Journey to Acceptance
Global Butterflies, The London Bisexual Network and the Law Society
Wed, 31 March 2021, 12:30 – 13:30 BST
To mark Trans Day of Visibility 2021, Global Butterflies, the London Bisexual Network and the Law Society are partnering to host a panel on the intersectionality between being Trans or Non-Binary and Bisexual.
Register for FREE via this link
- Spring Feast 2021: Virtual LGBTQ2S Family Celebration
The 519 EarlyON Child and Family Centre
Wed, March 31, 2021, 15:30 – 16:30 BST
Register for FREE via this link
- Trans Day of Visibility – Screening of Disclosure
University College Dublin Students Union
Wed, 31 March 2021, 18:30 – 20:00 BST
Register for FREE via this link
- 2021 Transgender Day of Visibility
Transgender Health and Wellness Center
Wed, Mar 31, 2021 23:00 – Thurs, Apr 1, 2021 01:00 BST
Register for FREE via this link
- Trans Presence: Beyond Visibility Panel
Play Out Apparel and SelectHealth Thurs, April 1, 2021, 01:00 – 02:30 BST
Live stories & music, a raw unfiltered panel discussion about trans diverse experiences, & more! On Transgender Day of Visibility, this event is going beyond visibility by sharing inspiring, informative, and diverse trans stories, spotlighting artists, and presenting important information about accessing health services.
Register for FREE via this link
- Trans Inclusion Training
University of Reading
Mon, 17 May 2021, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM BST
This is FREE to attend
Staff can register on UoRLearn via this link
Students can email diversity@reading.ac.uk to register
Further Resources
Autism and Gender Identity | National Autistic Society
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/what-is-autism/autism-and-gender-identity
Trans Day of Visibility | LGBT Foundation
https://lgbt.foundation/who-we-help/trans-people/trans-day-of-visibility
The urgency of intersectionality | Kimberlé Crenshaw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akOe5-UsQ2o