08 Mar Famous Autistic Women in Science
March 8th marks a date that needs celebrating: International Women’s Day! We wanted to take a moment to honor and elevate women on the spectrum by highlighting some famous autistic women in science. Their stories inspire us all to keep working toward our dreams and goals each and every day.
Autism in Women
There’s still a lot of work to do regarding autism diagnoses in women. Since most autism tests focus on the ways autism presents in men and boys, many women and girls have trouble receiving a positive diagnosis.
However, this hasn’t stopped hundreds of autistic women from making incredible strides in science! A diagnosis isn’t everything—you can do great things with or without one.
Temple Grandin
Dr. Temple Grandin is a Colorado State University professor known for her advocacy and activism. Despite several trips to the doctor at a young age, Dr. Grandin was not formally diagnosed with autism until she was an adult.
After earning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, Dr. Grandin became a leader in animal sciences and was named one of TIME Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People.” She led the charge on humane livestock treatment while championing autism rights.
Greta Thunberg
Age has never stopped Greta Thunberg from speaking her mind and educating the world on climate change. Greta’s passion for the environment led her to spark an incredible movement aimed at global climate awareness.
In addition to her work with sustainability, Greta Thunberg is an outspoken proponent of autism acceptance and calls her Asperger’s her “superpower.”
We agree!
Dr. Monique Botha
Dr. Monique Botha is a psychologist who is redefining autism research. Ignorant statements about people on the spectrum have been prevalent in research throughout history, contributing to the stresses and stigmas autistic people face. Dr. Botha has made it a point of her work to change biases by publishing papers on subjects like the potential benefits of autistic friendships.
It’s no secret that there are way more incredible autistic women out there! Find us on Facebook or reach out on Instagram to keep the conversation going—who are your favorite women on the spectrum?
We hope you’ll take time this month to learn more about the positive impact women with autism have had on our world. Keep supporting the autistic women and girls in your life—one day, we might be reading about them!