Introduction – Swarit Gopalan
Introduction - Swarit Gopalan
My name is Swarit and I am excited to be writing for kind theory. I would never have thought something like this was possible a couple of years back when I started my communication journey through spelling on a letter board. As this journey unfolded i got more comfortable and proficient with sharing my thoughts and feelings through typing on a regular keyboard. I have a communication and regulation partner (CRP) hold the keyboard for me for now while I am working on my skills to type independently.
It has always been a dream to share my story and perspectives more broadly so I can help accelerate the learning curve for families like ours. It is very important to me that we get voices like mine out of the prisons they are in. My life ought to move others in directions not thought possible as I would not be here if others had not shown the way. It would be a huge disservice to my tribe if they are left to figuring out solutions within the traditional structures that have only failed them.
I love the fact that kind theory is appealing to a more diverse population that is keen to engage those like me. It is exciting to be accepted for who I am and for my perspectives to be valued to be given a platform like this. There are amazing non speaking writers that have their own platforms. It is equally important that our voices resonate outside of our community and my hope is that those like kind theory will help us do that.
Swarit Gopalan
About the Author
I am an 11-yr old autistic, nonspeaker that uses letterboard to spell/keyboard to type to communicate.I live with my family in Florida and go to Invictus Academy for school.
I find a lot of solace in expressing myself through poetry. Music and nature also help me stay in the present, there is nothing better for me than to have my movement create a symphony with nature and to truly enjoy the sights and sounds. Living in harmony with nature is my life’s mission.
Right from the time of diagnosis, we are only told about all things we cannot or will not be able to do. Along with the check that is written to the doctor for the diagnosis, it often feels like our agency is written off too, especially without a reliable communication mechanism.
Time to change the paradigm with more non speaker voices. It has always been a dream to share my thoughts and perspectives with the world so that I can be one of the catalysts to creating a better understanding of non speakers in general.
My hope is that my words will help change the world from sympathy and pity for those like me to one of deeper understanding of our lives and allyship to ensure our rights.
Thank you Swarit for advocating for your community. I look forward to reading more of your thoughts. You write beautifully.
Love this Swarit! Keep it up!