Navigating Neurodiversity Together with Courage and Empathy
Who We Are
Spectrum Astrolabe is a news site dedicated to covering the diverse world of autism and neurodiversity. Our mission is to inform, empower, and connect the neurodivergent community and its allies by sharing stories, research, and perspectives that matter.
Our Mission
We believe that knowledge is a compass, and our goal is to help our readers navigate the evolving landscape of neurodiversity. We are committed to reporting with accuracy, sensitivity, and respect. We amplify neurodivergent voices and foster understanding in every article we publish.
What We Stand For
- Neurodiversity-Affirming: We celebrate neurological differences as a natural and valuable part of humanity. Our reporting highlights strengths, challenges, and the full spectrum of neurodivergent experiences.
- Centering Lived Experience: We prioritize stories and viewpoints from autistic and neurodivergent individuals. We ensure those most affected are heard and represented.
- Respect and Autonomy: We honor all forms of communication and support self-advocacy and autonomy for neurodivergent people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Inclusive and Intersectional: We recognize that neurodiversity intersects with race, gender, sexuality, disability, and more. Our coverage reflects and respects these overlapping identities.
- Support, Not Cure: We do not endorse “cure” narratives. Instead, we focus on supports, accommodations, and societal change that enable neurodivergent people to thrive.
- Evidence and Integrity: Our news and resources are grounded in research, lived expertise, and ethical journalism.
Our Values
- Inclusion: Everyone deserves to belong and be represented in the news.
- Empathy: We approach every story with compassion and open-mindedness.
- Courage: We tackle important topics and challenge harmful stereotypes.
- Empowerment: We amplify neurodivergent voices and leadership.
- Community: We build connections and foster dialogue.
- Integrity: We report honestly, transparently, and responsibly.
- Accuracy and Accountability: We are committed to providing information that is accurate, well-sourced, and verifiable.
Our Commitment to Accuracy
At Spectrum Astrolabe, we believe that trust is earned through transparency and accountability. We do not expect readers to take our word for anything without evidence. Our articles and resources include clear citations to reliable, secondary sources. We encourage readers to review these sources for themselves and to question, verify, and engage with the information we present.
- We fact-check our reporting and only rely on reputable sources.
- We provide links and references so readers can see where our information comes from.
- We welcome feedback and corrections to ensure our content remains accurate and trustworthy.
How We Work
- We publish news, features, interviews, and opinion pieces relevant to the neurodivergent community.
- We seek out and uplift the perspectives of autistic and neurodivergent writers, thinkers, and advocates.
- We challenge misinformation, stigma, and ableism. We promote a culture of acceptance and curiosity.
Our Story
Spectrum Astrolabe was created out of a passion for gathering and sharing knowledge about neurodiversity. The journey began with a personal search for information, sparked by the realization that navigating diagnoses like autism and ADHD can be overwhelming for families. As we collected research, resources, and practical tips to support loved ones, it became clear that others could benefit from a comprehensive and accessible source of information as well.
Our goal is to make the path clearer for anyone seeking to understand or support neurodivergent individuals. Spectrum Astrolabe is designed to be a forward-facing and organized hub for the latest news, research, and personal insights about autism and neurodiversity. We believe that by sharing stories, updates, and expert perspectives, we can empower families and individuals to make informed decisions and feel less alone on their journey.
The name Spectrum Astrolabe is inspired by the ancient navigation instrument, the astrolabe, which explorers once used to chart their course through the stars. In the same spirit, we aim to help our readers navigate the complexities of the autism spectrum and neurodivergence. Our goal is to offer guidance, clarity, and direction along the way.
We are committed to expanding the voices and perspectives featured on Spectrum Astrolabe. Our vision is to include contributions from parents, authors, doctors, and others with lived or professional experience in neurodiversity. This will help us create a rich and diverse resource for our community.
Above all, Spectrum Astrolabe strives to be a place where parents, caregivers, and individuals can find the information they need to navigate neurodivergence. We want to present everything clearly and compassionately so that no one feels overwhelmed.