About IONPH: Inspiring Change, Embracing Diversity
OUR PURPOSE
IONPH exists to advocate for the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of neurodivergent individuals in the Philippines. Through educational initiatives, support networks, and community programs, we seek to empower and transform the lives of those with neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.
OUR VISION
A Philippine society where neurodiversity is embraced and celebrated, and neurominorities thrive alongside the neuro-majority, recognized for their unique strengths and contributions to foster an inclusive and thriving community.
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OUR MISSION
To champion the rights, inclusion, and acceptance of neurominorities by providing resources, educational support, and advocacy. We actively transform lives and foster a supportive community in the Philippines.
OUR CORE VALUES
EQUALITY
Treating everyone fairly and without discrimination.
HONESTY
Committing to transparency, truthfulness, and integrity.
KINDNESS
Fostering empathy and compassion.
RESPECT
Honoring the dignity and worth of every individual.
COURAGE
Challenging the status quo to promote inclusion and acceptance of neurodiversity.
The Language We Use
At ION PH, we prioritize using language that is inclusive, empowering, and reflective of the lived experiences of the people we serve.
Why "Neurominority" is the Right Term
The term "neurodivergent" can imply a deviation from a supposed "norm," reinforcing negative stereotypes about neurological differences. For many in the neurodiversity community, the word "divergent" feels like it defines them by what they are not, rather than celebrating their unique strengths, perspectives, and contributions. This can be limiting and uncomfortable.
In contrast, "neurominority" recognizes that individuals with neurocognitive differences are in the minority in society. It acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and the importance of respect, support, and recognition—just as we do for any other minority group.
Neurominority highlights that neurological differences are a valid and natural part of human diversity. It moves away from deficit-based models, focusing instead on inclusion, strengths, and empowerment.
What Does "Neurominority" Mean?
Using neurominority focuses on the diverse spectrum of human experience, acknowledging that individuals with neurocognitive differences, such as those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, contribute unique perspectives and strengths to society. While they may require different support, their value should never be diminished. Neurominority reflects the reality that these individuals are a minority within society, and their needs and experiences deserve to be understood and respected.
The term does not imply inferiority—it simply indicates that this group is smaller in number compared to the neuromajority, or those whose neurological functioning aligns with what is considered typical. Neuromajority simply describes the larger portion of the population, without any judgment of superiority.
Why Language Matters
The language we use shapes how people perceive neurocognitive differences. By using neurominority, we aim to:
- Promote inclusivity – Ensuring all individuals, regardless of neurocognitive differences, are valued equally.
- Empower individuals – Focusing on strengths and contributions rather than labels of difference or deficiency.
- Challenge outdated norms – Moving away from the medical, deficit-based view of neurocognitive differences.
- Foster respect – Ensuring individuals from the neurominority group are treated with dignity and respect for their identity.
At ION, we are dedicated to fostering a world where neurodiversity is celebrated and individuals—whether part of the neurominority or neuromajority—are respected and valued equally. The language we use plays a pivotal role in creating a more inclusive, understanding, and accepting world for everyone.
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