The Meaning Behind the Rainbow Infinity Symbol
A symbol that many people have noticed more frequently in regards to autism is the rainbow-colored infinity sign. There are many symbols that have come to signify autism, so why is this one special?
The rainbow infinity sign was developed in the early 2000s as another alternative to the many already existing symbols of autism, which were largely developed by parents and clinicians on behalf of the community. Self-advocates in the community wanted to have a symbol that was developed purely by autistic people to represent the shifting viewpoint on autism. The rainbow infinity sign was put forward as a symbol of neurodiversity and autistic pride, showing that the community was claiming their own identity and voice.
The infinity sign is a fluid shape, with no beginning or end. This is meant to signify that autism is a complex spectrum rather than a simple linear path from low-functioning to high-functioning (language which is now widely considered to be outdated). The spectrum of rainbow colors also signifies this, representing the wide variety of people on the autism spectrum who all have different skills, abilities, personalities, and identities. The rainbow infinity sign is meant to be all-inclusive, a symbol in which anyone on the autism spectrum can see their full, complex, and unique selves represented.
Some other symbols have come to signify the neurodiversity and autism pride movements. One of these includes the color gold, since “Au” can stand of “Autism” and is also the chemical symbol for the element gold; it also signifies that autism can be viewed as something valuable instead of purely as a deficit. Another is the rainbow-colored brain, which can also stand for neurodiversity as a whole, including other neurological conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia. There is a huge catalog of symbols to choose from, and everyone has the option to choose the one that is personally meaningful for them.
The beauty of a symbol being created and adopted by the neurodiversity movement is in the opportunity for neurodivergent people to speak for themselves and be seen in the way that they wish to be seen. In the case of the rainbow infinity sign, it is encouraging to see its increased presence in the public sphere and the pride with which the autistic community can display it. During this Autism Acceptance Month, keep an eye out for it and for other neurodiversity symbols, and consider what it means to the people in your own life.
A rainbow infinity symbol representing autism acceptance is centered on a soft green background, with the words “April is Autism Acceptance Month” placed around it.
