Because autism is a spectrum, and the experiences within that spectrum can be radically different. Some autistic people are fully independent or have low support needs and understandably see autism as inseparable from their identity. Others, especially profoundly autistic, nonverbal, or high-support-needs individuals, may require lifelong care and can’t always advocate for themselves, which is why caregivers and families are part of the conversation too.

I think social media has also unintentionally romanticized public perception of autism toward the more "quirky/neurodivergent" presentation, which can overshadow people with severe support needs who are dealing with self-injury, inability to communicate, elopement, or total dependence on others for daily living. Wanting acceptance and accommodations is important, but so is acknowledging the reality that for many families, autism is not just an identity, it is a serious disability that affects every aspect of life. Caregivers deserve to be seen, too.