Autistic Indigenous Constellations: Exploring the Value of Autistic Traits in Haudenosaunee Cultural Stories

Abstract: Autism, a neurodevelopmental disability, remains misunderstood and stereotyped within a settler-colonial society. This article examines autism through a relational Haudenosaunee framework to challenge deficit-based models that pathologize neurodivergence. Experiences of Autistic Indigenous individuals are underrepresented in academic research and community discourse, leaving critical gaps in understanding and support. Through a close reading of Haudenosaunee stories, such as those of Sky Woman and the Peacemaker, this article explores how autistic traits are already present, integral, and celebrated within Haudenosaunee knowledge systems. Moving beyond inclusion or superficial Indigenization, this article calls for community-based models of care that honor autism as a natural diversity of being. By resisting the systemic racism and ableism that dehumanize Autistic Indigenous people, this work (re)centers relationality, belonging, and collective care. Drawing on my lived experiences as an Autistic Haudenosaunee person, I seek to unravel generations of stigma and harm to generate (more) accurate representations of autism by highlighting the transformative possibilities of autistic traits within Haudenosaunee stories. While dreaming of futures where Autistic Indigenous people are not simply accommodated but fully embraced and inherently valued within our communities, this article shifts the conversation toward deeper considerations of belonging, care, communication, and collective responsibility within our respective Indigenous worldviews.