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Thoughts on Radical Visibility

 If you are not aware of the Radical Visibility movement for Queer Disabled people, I highly suggest looking into Sky Cubacub's website for Rebirth Garments and watch the video or read the abridged version of the zine on the topic of Radical Visibility.

Radical Visibility is an anti-assimilationist approach to wearing vibrant and unique clothing and apparel to highlight both your Queer and Disabled status, whatever that might be. Rebirth Garments is a line that produces clothing, lingerie, and apparel for Queer Disabled people that help us stand out in the world because we are often pushed aside.

Radical Visibility can come in many forms, as highlighted in Dr. Devon Price's book, Unmasking Autism. I have my own way that I have developed to express myself through Radical Visibility: wearing Cheshire cat coswear (or as I like to call it, "my fursuit") in public. I get a lot of looks from people, but I have also received a compliment. I have tried this on two occasions, as I don't get out much due to social anxiety associated with being Autistic, however, I am becoming more comfortable with myself in the process.

This is a form of unmasking, not only for Autistic people, but any Disabled person, as the clothing and apparel that society wants us to wear is often one where we tone down our Disability and conform. Sky's website will offer very colorful and geometric clothing and apparel for the full range of gender, size, and Disability status. 

If you would like to unmask, I highly suggest trying on something vibrant or what society may deem "unusual" and see how much more comfortable you start to become with yourself in the process. It may seem anxiety-inducing at first, but in my opinion it pays off in the long-run because you no longer have to hide who you are. I'm not asking for society's approval, as it does not provide me with the accommodations I need, but with the help of other Radically Visible Queer Disabled people, we can start our own Revolution in the ways we dress. While my armor might be cat ears rather than Sky's chainmaille, the concept is still the same and your Radical Visibility should be based on your own preferences as well. 


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