Thread by @autisticats

After re-watching #LoveOnTheSpectrum, my feelings have shifted to a more positive place.

Yes, it’s too white. And it’s also made for a NT audience.

But the autistic people in the show are treated with respect by the filmmakers, and they’re encouraged to be themselves.

The first time I watched it, I was scared. I felt vulnerable, and exposed, and worried about how the autistic people would be perceived.

Accurate representation of autistic people is rare, so I wanted this show to be perfect. It’s not, but nothing ever can be.

I was scrolling through TikTok today and I came across a video that someone took of the scene where Maddi talks about how she thinks children are a waste of time and money.

The person recording laughed (in a good natured way), and all of the comments were positive.

I was worried about how NTs would react to the people in the show.

But it turns out that they appreciate autistic people’s candor, enthusiasm, and funky sense of humor. They find our genuineness refreshing. And they’re learning a lot about autism in the process.

I also love that the filmmakers included long-term autistic couples.

The “navy socks” moment in Ep. 5 really shows the strengths of autistic partnership. Jimmy was stressed out and fixated on his socks, and instead of fighting it, Sharnae understood and took him to get new ones

The show isn’t without its flaws. And in my opinion, the autistic people in the show shouldn’t be expected to interact with each other based on NT norms.

But ultimately, I think it’s a big step in the right direction. And all of the autistic people featured are icons 💕