Words matter, especially at the front of a lecture hall

“Words matter.” That was the theme of a recent symposium on Diversity and Inclusion, here at Leiden University. How seemingly casual language can sustain or emphasize exclusion of groups that are marginalized within society.

Are autistic people unsocial? Or is it in the eyes of the non-autistic people?

Autism and social inclusion at high school; a case of weak or strong ties?

Weak ties contribute to a sense of belonging, so how does that work for autistic teens at school? Isn’t it a fact that autistic pupils do not fancy small talk and rather stay alone? Better autism awareness can contribute to changing such misconceptions.