University of Neurodiversity

Neurodivergent Communication Request

Start things off on the right foot with cops. This image is FAIR USE PUBLIC DOMAIN and can be used as a lock screen on your phone, printed on a t-shirt or anything else. Border text contains important sections of the American's With Disabilities Act text ADA TITLE II, 28 § 35.160 (a,b)

FEDERAL LAW TRUMPS ALL LOCAL AND STATE LAW

I attempted to talk to the librarians today at the Encinitas Library regarding the Neurodivergent Performer Safe Space today... and they told me I'm only doing this for facebook and youtube content, not to benefit the neurodivergent community and create a more equitable public space at the library 😳 This is basically the opposite approach of what the experts like Dr. Vandana say about fostering safe learning spaces for neurodivergent people, such as:

Fostering positive relationships
Allowing ample time to think and process
Exhibiting patience

Not only did the library staff foster a hostile relationship, they did not allow ample time to think and process, did not exhibit patience and kicked me out instead. The coup de grace was hearing that the suffering I've endured my entire life was all just for "facebook and youtube content" 🙃 Let's change this system so that it better serves the next neurodivergent person equitably 🫶 Terra Lawson-Remer

Handwritten lyrics for song petitioning for a Neurodivergent Performer Safe Space at the Encinitas Library 🥸

Hey Terra Lawson-Remer!
This is where it starts
With neuro-diverse safe space
For expression of the arts

Lots of us have talents
We developed on our own
Let us give our gifts for tips
In a laidback outdoor zone

Performing arts are perfect for
Neurodiverse minds
Different masks on different days
For different roles in times

If we had a safe space
We could show up when we please
Earn our tips and share our art
Promote equity

So Mr. Fletcher; Terra too
Please find it in your hearts
To make a safe space for those of us
Performing in the arts

THANK YOU!

PowerPoint presentation on the Neurodivergent Performer Safe Space at the Encinitas Library

Books Brains & Buskers Books Brains & Buskers San Diego County Library’s “Neurodivergent Performer Program”

Sent a second message to County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer in regards to the proposed "Neurodivergent Performer Safe Space" at the Encinitas Library. For the sake of transparency, here's a copy of the text:

Howdy! Thanks for your work, especially in regards to the new county initiative to hire Neurodivergent residents! I'm neurodivergent, live in Encinitas and you've inspired me to take initiative in integrating neurodivergent skillsets/expression into the local community. Starting from a neurodivergent perspective is an essential step in the process to create sustainable jobs for neurodivergent people.

I've used this contact form once before but never received a response, so I went ahead and pitched a "Neurodivergent Public Performance Program" to facilitate an outdoor “creative arts performance space” featuring local neurodivergent artists at the Encinitas Library yesterday. The idea was not well received and I was told "no, that will not happen here" by Peg, a higher-up in the library's programming department. I told her I would love to document the process of developing a creative expression space and the obstacles associated with it. At that point Peg told me she no longer wanted to talk to me and walked away, disappearing into the back office of the library. I attempted to document the process with video of Peg telling me "no" but was promptly kicked out of the library on Peg's request.

According to experts like Dr. Vandana, we can create safe environments for neurodivergent individuals by:

Eliminating barriers to learning
Eliminating barriers to participation
Fostering positive relationships with others
Allowing ample time to think and process
Exhibiting patience

I was shocked to see the Library staff socially isolate and ostracize me for being neurodivergent and not displaying neurotypical behaviors in a library setting. Are you interested in helping develop a Neurodivergent Public Performance Program that facilitates an outdoor “creative arts performance space” featuring local neurodivergent artists?

Outdoor Busking Performances overcome major challenges presented by integrating neurodivergent people into the workforce/community by:

Reducing Workplace Etiquette
-Performers can choose whether to socialize
-No social groups

Reducing Time Constraints
-Performers can sign up to arrive when needed
-Performers can leave when needed

Reduces Personal Hygiene Requirements
-Outdoor air exchange reduces body odors
-Simple barrier protects performer from public/staff

Reduced Cognitive Gaps
-Performer can practice and develop skill at home
-No “job requirements” to fulfill

I'm determined to develop this program and document the process through social media, particularly videos on YouTube and Facebook to ensure absolute transparency. This could be a great opportunity to get started on the county recruitment effort, while simultaneously benefitting the neurodivergent community locally (at the library) and globally (on social media)

I look forward to your response!

Thank you and Happy New Year!

Came up with a name and logo for the proposed Neurodivergent Performer Safe Space at the Encinitas Library...drumroll please....

BOOKS BRAINS & BUSKERS 😄

MISSION: to facilitate an outdoor creative arts performance safe space for local neurodivergent artists

Typical public concert venues are often inaccessible to the neurodivergent performer AND spectator. Experiencing live performances in the fine arts is often elusive to the growing number neurodivergent community