🧠💌 An Open Letter to Organizations Who Say They’re Inclusive

June 3rd, 2025
Alyssa Marin

Dear allies, employers, and decision-makers,

It's Pride Month, and we need to talk about what's important: including people who are both neurodivergent and part of the LGBTQ+ community. Too often, we get left out of the conversation — or used for show without real support. That needs to change...

Inclusion means actually hiring us and involving us in decisions—not just posting vague promises about hiring ‘anyone.’  It means creating workspaces where our differences are respected and supported, not ignored or punished. It means designing designated events, programs, and policies with neurodivergent people at the table from the start and incorporating people who are LGBTQ+. Real inclusion is about action, not just words.  

Inclusion means more than just physical access. It means creating sensory-friendly spaces where bright lights, loud noises, or crowds don’t exclude us. It means respecting the way we communicate—whether that’s needing extra time to process, using text instead of voice, or honoring our preferred names and pronouns without any question. Real inclusion respects all parts of our identities, even if they don’t fit traditional expectations. 

When I’m excluded or treated like a token, it honestly feels like I’m not accepted for who I truly am. It sends me the message that I’m only valuable as a symbol, not as a whole person with my own thoughts, feelings, and potential. That kind of treatment makes it hard for me to grow independently and to be confident in my identity. I want to be seen, heard, and included—not just in words, but in real, meaningful ways.  

It’s hard to live in a world that doesn’t give me hope, which is why I am where I am right now. Sometimes, it’s difficult to accept where I am today compared to where I was 10 years ago.

If you really want to be inclusive, start by believing us when we share our experiences, even if they’re hard to hear.   Inclusion isn’t just a feel-good phrase — it’s about respect, action, and accountability. It means making space for neurodivergent voices not just only during Pride Month or Autism Awareness Month but every single day. We are here. We are ready to contribute. Now, it’s time for you to listen and act. 

With hope for a brighter future full of change,
Alyssa Marin♾️






If you liked this blog post, comment, share, etc.  Have any comments, questions, etc.? Reach out to me by messaging me on instagram @agirllivingwithaudhd or email me  alyssa.onthespectrum@gmail.com.  

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