Why this writer says her son deserves a champion like Tim Walz
Digest
The podcast begins with a discussion of Gus Walls, the son of Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walls, who became a viral sensation for his emotional response to his father's nomination speech. Gus, who has a nonverbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder, was seen crying and clapping loudly as his father spoke. The conversation then shifts to a discussion of neurodiversity and the implications of Gus Walls' story for policy. The challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and the need for greater understanding and support from government officials are explored. Journalist Tina Brown, the mother of a neurodivergent son, shares her personal perspective on the emotional impact of seeing Gus's reaction and the importance of celebrating neurodiversity. Brown discusses her son Georgie's experience with autism, highlighting his unique perspective and the challenges he faces in a world that often doesn't understand neurodiversity. The podcast explores the potential for objectification when celebrating neurodivergent individuals like Gus Walls, emphasizing the importance of treating neurodivergent people as individuals and not simply as sources of inspiration. Brown offers policy recommendations for supporting neurodivergent individuals, including increased employment opportunities and the development of assisted living communities tailored to their needs.
Outlines
Gus Walls, Neurodiversity, and Policy
The podcast begins with a discussion of Gus Walls, the son of Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walls, who became a viral sensation for his emotional response to his father's nomination speech. Gus, who has a nonverbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder, was seen crying and clapping loudly as his father spoke. The conversation then shifts to a discussion of neurodiversity and the implications of Gus Walls' story for policy. The challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and the need for greater understanding and support from government officials are explored.
Tina Brown's Perspective on Neurodiversity
Journalist Tina Brown, the mother of a neurodivergent son, shares her personal perspective on the emotional impact of seeing Gus's reaction and the importance of celebrating neurodiversity. Brown discusses her son Georgie's experience with autism, highlighting his unique perspective and the challenges he faces in a world that often doesn't understand neurodiversity. The podcast explores the potential for objectification when celebrating neurodivergent individuals like Gus Walls, emphasizing the importance of treating neurodivergent people as individuals and not simply as sources of inspiration. Brown offers policy recommendations for supporting neurodivergent individuals, including increased employment opportunities and the development of assisted living communities tailored to their needs.
Keywords
Neurodiversity
The concept that human brains and minds are naturally diverse, encompassing a wide range of cognitive abilities, learning styles, and behavioral traits. It challenges the traditional view of "normal" and celebrates the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals with different neurological experiences.
Nonverbal Learning Disorder
A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with nonverbal skills, such as visual-spatial reasoning, social interaction, and motor coordination. Individuals with NVLD often excel in verbal skills but struggle with tasks that require visual or spatial processing.
Assisted Living
A type of housing for seniors and individuals with disabilities that provides support services such as meals, medication management, and personal care. Assisted living communities offer a more independent living environment than nursing homes, while still providing necessary assistance.
Inspiration Porn
A term used to criticize the portrayal of disabled people in a way that focuses on their struggles and resilience, often for the benefit of non-disabled viewers. It suggests that disabled people are primarily valued for their ability to overcome adversity, rather than for their individual worth and contributions.
Q&A
What are some of the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in society?
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges related to social interaction, communication, and employment. They may experience discrimination, misunderstandings, and a lack of access to appropriate support services.
How can we create a more inclusive society for neurodivergent individuals?
We can create a more inclusive society by promoting understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity, providing accessible support services, and advocating for policies that address the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.
What are some specific policy recommendations for supporting neurodivergent individuals?
Policy recommendations include increasing employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals, developing assisted living communities tailored to their needs, and providing access to affordable and effective therapies and support services.
What is the danger of objectifying neurodivergent individuals?
Objectifying neurodivergent individuals can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reduce them to their differences. It can also lead to a focus on their struggles and resilience, rather than their individual worth and contributions.
Show Notes
In a viral moment, the cameras panned to 17-year-old Gus Walz, who, with tears in his eyes, stood up, clapped loudly, pointed to the stage and appeared to repeatedly yell out: "That's my dad!"
Some cheered the new visibility of neurodivergent people.
But what do advocates and parents of neurodiverse children actually want from government officials, like Tim Walz, in terms of policy?
For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.
Email us at considerthis@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy
Table of contents
United States
