Paper
Decolonizing Neuroqueering: Bridging Historical Non-Binary Practices with Modern Neurodivergent Identities
presenters
Mayne Souza Benedetto
Nationality: Brazil
Residence: Portugal
Institute of Social Sciences, ICS, University of Lisbon
Presence:Face to Face/ On Site
Keywords:
Neuroqueering, Decolonization, Critical Racial Studies, Historical Gender Fluidity, Intersectionality.
Abstract:
This article critically examines the concept of neuroqueering, exploring its development within white neurodivergent communities and advocating for a broader, more inclusive framework. Drawing from Critical Autism Studies, Critical Racial Studies, Health Anthropology, and Queer Theory, this study interrogates the modern emergence of neuroqueering and contrasts it with historical non-binary and non-normative practices in pre-colonial non-white populations. The analysis unfolds in two parts. First, a brief genealogical investigation traces the historical practices of gender fluidity and non-normative identities in various non-white cultures before colonial subjugation, demonstrating how these communities embraced a spectrum of identities beyond the binary imposed by colonial powers. Second, a critical discourse analysis examines the contemporary development of neuroqueering within white neurodivergent communities, identifying the potential limitations and exclusive tendencies of this framework. By contextualizing neuroqueering within a broader historical and cultural framework, this study exposes the limitations of applying a white-centric framework to diverse cultural experiences. It argues for a decolonized approach that recognizes and integrates the rich traditions of gender fluidity and non-normative identities that existed in non-white cultures. Ultimately, this article calls for an inclusive reimagining of neuroqueering that honors the pre-colonial history and practices of non-white populations, thereby enriching its discussion.