Political Lip Service: The Need for Genuine Advocacy
In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Dr. Adam Hazlett explore neurodivergence and autism, debating whether autism is a superpower and the importance of parental support. They discuss balancing freedom and protection, caregiver neglect, employment challenges, and ADA regulations. The conversation covers the reclassification of autism by HHS, tokenism, community connections, financial challenges, and political policies on disability. They highlight the value of caregivers and conclude with advocacy, legislative efforts, fundraising, and future plans.
Key Points
- People with disabilities often face systemic barriers that prevent them from achieving financial independence, such as asset limits on Social Security and restrictions on marriage.
- The classification of autism as a disease rather than a disability could lead to harmful misconceptions and policies that further marginalize individuals.
- Meaningful change for people with disabilities requires active engagement and genuine listening from policymakers, rather than token gestures and photo opportunities.
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Dr. Adam “Dutch” Hazlett is a renowned advocate for and expert in neurodiversity and inclusion, whose work is enriched by a deep understanding of the humanities and the complexities of human interaction. With two master’s degrees and a doctorate in humanities, along with certifications in Disability Inclusion from the University of Michigan and Neurodiversity from Florida State University, Dr. Hazlett combines academic insight with practical expertise in equitable design and user experience. In 2025, he was named a Fulbright Specialist in Education, honored for his international leadership in universal design and innovative approaches to educating autistic learners. Dr. Hazlett’s work focuses on helping institutions across sectors understand the importance of accessibility, empathy, and equity, offering training that emphasizes neuro-inclusion and micro-accommodations to foster more inclusive environments. He is also the creator and host of NACHOS (Neuro-Affirming Conversation Hour for Outreach and Support), a widely shared podcast and resource hub that explores neurodivergent life, self-care, and community through affirming, research-based storytelling. In addition to his role as a tenured professor of humanities at Henry Ford College in Dearborn, Michigan, Dr. Hazlett actively contributes to disability advocacy. He serves as Director of Public Relations for Self-Advocates of Michigan, a statewide organization affiliated with the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council, and is the founder and executive director of Humanities 101, an autistic-led charitable organization dedicated to empowering autistic individuals. Guided by the motto “Normalize No Normal,” Humanities 101 embodies Dr. Hazlett’s commitment to redefining “normal” and creating a world that embraces diverse ways of living and connecting. His work continually challenges societal norms, advancing a vision for inclusive communities that celebrate human diversity in all its forms.
LINKS: Website: https://www.humanities101.org/ Email: [email protected]
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Transcript
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