Is Owning an Autism Plushie Ableist if You’re Not Autistic?

The internet has sparked a discussion about whether it is seen as ableist to own an autism plushie, especially if one is not actually autistic. This article aims to explore different viewpoints on this topic and the underlying issues of cultural appropriation versus appreciation.

The Case against Ableism

One viewpoint argues that there's a significant difference between appropriating and appreciating. According to an individual identifying as autistic, they believe that owning an autism plushie without being autistic isn't inherently ableist, as it's merely a toy. This viewpoint suggests that enjoying something should not be restricted to specific demographic groups and points out that there are more pressing issues that activists should address.

Not everyone agrees. Another individual, also autistic, asserts that they would not be upset if their two-year-old nephew had an autism-themed plushie. They emphasize that the plushie is simply a toy, and it would be extremely different if someone were to pretend to be autistic in public. The emphasis is on the respectful use of the toy as a non-identifying item rather than a personal identifier.

The Purpose of Plushies

A third perspective suggests that these plushies can serve to raise awareness about autism and act as a form of support. By acknowledging the importance of these items, they can reduce the stigma associated with autism and bring more light to the struggles faced by individuals with autism and their families.

The Critique of Reducing Autistics to Toys

Another participant elaborates on how the notion of reducing people with disabilities, including autism, to merely "fuzzy toys" can be insulting. They argue that such a reduction plays into harmful stereotypes and oversimplifies the complexities of autism and the experiences of autistic individuals.

The critique extends to the idea that focusing on cultural appropriation detracts from addressing the systemic issues faced by many marginalized communities. This echoes the sentiment that the real victims are being overlooked by activists in their focus on cultural appropriation, which the individual sees as more of a low-stakes issue compared to more pressing global problems.

Ableism: A Deeper Look

To understand the term "ableism," it's important to distinguish it from the act of owning or using toys. Ableism is defined as the unequal treatment of individuals based on their perceived differences in abilities. For example, expecting someone with a physical disability to perform tasks in a "normal" way, such as carrying a box with both hands, can be seen as ableist behavior if it ignores the individual's limitations and persistent demands are made to conform to conventional standards.

Conclusion

The controversy over autism plushies highlights the complex and evolving nature of social norms and awareness. It's important to approach these discussions with empathy and a willingness to learn, recognizing that supporting a marginalized community goes beyond just avoiding certain behaviors. Instead, it involves advocating for inclusivity, understanding, and respect.