As a teenager I thought in a binary fashion, and this affected how I understood sexuality and gender. My understanding of what it meant to be bisexual was that you liked both men and women, and tha…

Last night's grief circle by Black Psychotherapy, led by poet Janice Whyne, honoured Professor Jason Arday. Participants expressed deep emotions of grief, rage, and injustice associated with his tragic death and broader societal issues. The session encouraged reflection on grief, community support, and the transformative power of shared experiences and words.

A remarkable coalition is united: stop the billionaire race to replace humanity with AI. If you agree, add your name.

Theatre for Life and Beyond Reflections present "I Was Always Here," a verbatim show celebrating trans+ narratives across generations. Integrating music and cabaret, the production highlights trans+ history and contemporary issues, receiving positive audience feedback for its emotional depth and intersectionality. Tickets are available for upcoming performances in London and Portsmouth.

In early 2023, Cambridge University were delighted to tell the world that Dr Jason Arday had been appointed as a Professor of Sociology of Education, with his post beginning in March that year. Cambridge University shared "Arday has faced many personal challenges – notably being diagnosed, at the age of three, with a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder which meant he was unable to speak until he was 11." This inspiration porn style article posits Jason, a Black, working class, man with 'autism spectrum disorder' as being able to overcome his disability (and presumably his race and ethnicity?) to be able to become a professor.

Seek justice for Professor Jason Arday

Commission an immediate public inquiry into how to ensure a responsible press given its contribution to Dr Arday’s tragic death.

Academic was pronounced dead at his home in south London after police called to address after 3pm on Friday

This blog began in spring 2022, focusing on Autistic experiences and intersections with queerness. Over time, I've shifted to explore cancer care and health issues for disabled and trans individuals while pursuing my PhD. I am curious about the evolving nature of my writing.

The author's PhD research involves analysing health and social care experiences with four trans and gender diverse co-researchers. Initially concerned about coordination, the collaboration has proved rewarding, enhancing understanding of shared experiences. The team is now writing a paper on their findings, demonstrating the power of participatory action research.

A poem on how I feel about PhD study at the moment...

In July, I attended a workshop in Durham focused on gender, autism, and injustice, exploring the experiences of autistic women. Key topics included epistemic and affective injustice, impression management in socially anxious youth, and the impact of cisgenderism and neuro-normativity in research. The event prompted reflections on autism and authenticity.

The author struggles with severe fatigue, affecting daily life and prompting medical consultations. Despite normal test results and suggestions to adjust mental health medication, the lack of quality sleep worsens irritability and sensory sensitivities. They reflect on societal pressures around productivity and advocate for self-acceptance and pacing in managing their health.

The SCDTP workshop on queer methodologies fostered a reflective space for researchers to explore identity, vulnerability, and methodological challenges. Attendees shared personal experiences, fostering community and connection, while learning to embrace and queer their research practices. Collaborative activities, like zine-making, deepened their reflections on identity and the power of community.

Earlier this month, I was honoured to share space with some amazing thinkers, activists and researchers at the Past Lessons, Current Challenges and Future Horizons: (In)equalities in Post-Compulsory Education. This mini-conference focused on the current challenges in post-compulsory education. Drawing on past and ongoing forms of resistance and transformation, it opened the door to reimagine the future. This was an Education, Social Justice, and Transformation research group event funded by…

I’m going to several UK Pride events this year. I made myself a checklist and thought others might benefit from this too. #PrideMonth #Pride2024

YouTube video by Participatory Autism Research Collective