What happened during Neurodiversity Pride Day & ND Pride Week 2023?

Neurodiversity Pride Day 2023: A Year of Unity, Expression, and Growth

The 2023 edition of Neurodiversity Pride Day was a celebration like no other. With powerful keynote speeches, vibrant dances, creative arts, and a new Neurodiversity Pride flag, this year’s event brought neurodivergent communities and allies together in unique and inclusive ways. Neurodiversity Pride Day has been growing each year, and in 2023, it reached new heights, engaging 1.1 million people across 10 countries.

The Big Move

For the organizers, one ‘behind the scenes’ element was important: To MOVE the day, definitively, in all countries and places, from the day we celebrated the first 5 edition (18th) to the 16th, thereby honoring those still celebrating Autistic Pride, in a showing of love, solidarity and respect. New guidelines are to ‘not organize on the 18th anymore’, and leave that ‘shine’ for our AP friends. As a organizing body, we continue to believe in our core statement: Pride Stands Together.  

Growing Global Participation

In 2023, Neurodiversity Pride Day expanded its reach, with events across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. Here are some highlights:

• Netherlands: The birthplace of Neurodiversity Pride, the Netherlands hosted multiple events, including the first Neurodance and a record-breaking 27-hour ND Rave.
• United Kingdom: In London and Manchester, celebrations included talks, art exhibits, and neurodiversity network events in workplaces.
• USA: Flag-hoisting ceremonies in major cities like New York and community gatherings brought Americans together to honor neurodiversity.
• Canada and Australia: Both countries hosted a mix of virtual and in-person events, raising awareness and celebrating neurodivergent identities.
• Belgium and Poland: Minor activities in Belgium and bigger ones in Warsaw with creative and professional gatherings.
• Indonesia and Philippines: These Southeast Asian countries focused on neurodivergent youth, school system, and cultural awareness in their celebrations.
• Egypt: In a very first ever event in Egypt, a celebration with young autistics was held, making it one of the first official ND Pride events in the Middle East.

With 10 countries supporting Neurodiversity Pride, the movement is closer to its long-term dream of global recognition on the UN World Calendar. Neurodiversity Pride Day aims to create a universal space where neurodivergent people can gather, celebrate, and be recognized for who they are.

A Wide Range of Activities

The 2023 celebration offered a variety of activities, from creative arts to high-energy events, all in safe and supportive spaces. Here’s a closer look at some highlights:

• Neurodance: This first live edition was an incredible success, with neurodivergent individuals aged 20-35 dancing freely in a safe space where they could be themselves without “masking.” The sense of community and acceptance was palpable, and the energy of the night made this event a standout.
• 27-Hour ND Rave: This all-night DJ marathon brought together neurodivergent dancers across Europe, Asia, and beyond, both online and in VR. DJ Moonwyrm and the Wyrmlings DJ collective hosted the event, bringing creativity, friendship, and joy to dancers worldwide.
• Flag-Hoisting Ceremonies: Neurodiversity Pride Day 2023 marked the launch of a new Neurodiversity Pride flag, raised in multiple cities to symbolize visibility and solidarity for neurodivergent people everywhere. Starting in Leiden, Netherlands, this tradition spread to other cities, making it a powerful symbol of acceptance.
• NeuroEmergence Gathering: This event, aimed at late-diagnosed or newly identified neurodivergent individuals, offered a safe, supportive environment where attendees could share stories and form connections. Co-led by the Neurodiversity Education Academy, the event helped foster understanding and solidarity.
• Art and Creative Events: The celebration included collaborative art projects, colorful socks events, and an ND art expo, allowing neurodivergent participants to express themselves creatively and connect with each other.
• Keynotes: Inspirational speakers made a deep impact on attendees, with highlights including Jessica McCabe’s keynote, which moved some to tears and reinforced a sense of belonging. Other powerful keynotes by Dr Nancy Doyle, Jopie Louwe Kooijmans, and Suzanne Rouwhorst explored themes of acceptance, advocacy, and the importance of neurodiversity in various fields.
• Family-Friendly Events: Events to bolster family warmth in the Netherlands offered family-focused experiences where neurodivergent children and their families could celebrate together.
• Neurodiversity Choir: The Neurodiversity Choir of the ADHD Foundation, brought together voices in harmony, performing uplifting songs like ‘something inside so strong’ that celebrated neurodivergent identities.
• The NIP Award: The Neuro-Inclusive Politician Award was presented to a deserving leader who demonstrated exceptional commitment to neurodiversity advocacy.

A Movement Gaining Unstoppable Traction

Neurodiversity Pride Day 2023 reached an estimated 1.1 million people across multiple platforms, with over 100 organizations joining in. New partners included NiB, HyHyves, COC, and the UK-based ADHDFoundation, all contributing to the growth of neurodiversity networks within workplaces and communities.

The event also received significant media coverage, with positive responses on social media and growing support from government departments. This year, several governmental departments and provinces publicly acknowledged the importance of Neurodiversity Pride, marking a pivotal step toward broader societal recognition.

Celebrating Neurodivergent Identities, Together

Neurodiversity Pride Day 2023 was a day of camaraderie, connection, and joy. Neurodivergent individuals came together to celebrate their unique strengths and find acceptance among those who understand their experiences. From the tradition of saying “Happy Neurodiversity Pride Day” to the waving of the new ND Pride flag, this year’s event reinforced the values of unity, visibility, and pride.

This celebration would not have been possible without the dedication of volunteers, many of whom are neurodivergent themselves. The team brought the day to life, creating a space where everyone felt welcomed and appreciated.

Looking Forward to 2024

The momentum from Neurodiversity Pride Day 2023 sets an exciting stage for 2024. Plans are already underway for an even larger international presence with 12 countries, and a wider array of activities that will bring neurodivergent people together in new ways. The Neurodiversity Foundation continues to support this work toward its dream: a UN accepted day in a world where neurodivergent people are celebrated and valued every year.

Keynotes

There are many talks and keynotes this year, with over 45 speakers and even more panellists in all participating nations. The four main keynotes (2 in english, 2 in nl) are: 

Find out more about the event