"Takiwatanga" - Celebrating Neurodiversity Through Cultural Wisdom

"In Maori culture, autism is referred to as 'takiwātanga,' which translates to 'in his/her own time and space”. What a beautiful way to respect people with autism.

This profound concept from Maori culture offers us all a transformative lens through which to view neurodiversity.
Rather than framing autism as a disorder or deficit, this perspective honors the unique temporal and spatial experience of autistic individuals. It acknowledges that each person moves through the world according to their own internal rhythm and perception.

The term "takiwātanga" was introduced in 2017 by Keri Opai, who led the development of a Maori glossary of mental health terminology. In creating this term, Opai consulted with both Maori elders and autism specialists to find language that would be respectful, accurate, and culturally meaningful.

What makes this perspective so powerful is how it shifts the narrative from one of pathology to one of respect. Instead of viewing autistic processing as "wrong" or "delayed," it's simply recognized as different, a natural variation in human experience that deserves acknowledgment and accommodation.

This wisdom reminds us that true inclusion isn't about forcing everyone into the same mold, but about creating spaces where diverse ways of being are valued and supported. When we embrace the concept that everyone moves through life "in their own time and space," we create communities where neurodivergent individuals can thrive authentically.

Learning from indigenous perspectives like this enriches our collective understanding and reminds us that wisdom about human difference exists across cultures and throughout history. It invites us to question dominant narratives and to seek out more compassionate, holistic ways of seeing each other.

What cultural wisdom about human diversity has expanded your understanding? How might viewing neurodiversity through this lens of "in one's own time and space" change how we structure our schools, workplaces, and communities?

Let's celebrate these beautiful perspectives that help us all become more accepting, patient, and appreciative of the rich tapestry of human experience.

AA✨