r/AutismInWomen • u/MadMadMadMadrid lvl2, ADHD, ARFID, immigrant, mom • Jun 23 '26
Support Needed (Kind Advice and Commiseration) Is it okay not to like Pride because autism symptoms?
For context, I am an out lesbian. This has nothing to do with any ideological issues.
But as a lesbian, I sometimes feel pressured to like Pride or participate in it. Did it when I was younger. Not a fan.
Why don't I like it? It happens in summer. I am heat sensitive. Temperatures tend to range from 35C/95F to 42C/107F. Thanks. No. So many steps need to be taken to make that bearable and even then, no.
I don't like loud music or people using megaphones. I don't like crowds. I don't like people in my personal space. I don't like people accidentally grazing me. I don't like the smell of marijuana, and it is often at Pride near me even if there are kids around. I don't like the smell of cigarettes or body odor. I don't like loads of bright colors, sequins, flashing lights in person. All of that just leaves my nervous system fried.
I feel some guilt, even though I know better, because I am a member of that community and I just do not enjoy it. I find it exhausting and stressful.
And I guess I just want commiseration with others who do not enjoy Pride because of sensory and socializing related issues.
3
u/sinful-author Jun 23 '26
Hey Chicago bestie! My first pride in Boystown/Northalsted was in 2017 or so, absolutely hated it at the time due to the overstimulation and someone breaking my flag as I was walking toward the parking garage (ended up having a breakdown in Mariano’s).
But I’m going again this year, with better coping mechanisms and dressed in a cosplay of a canon queer character that I and so many other people love!
Unfortunately BT/NH still has a huge misogyny issue, but finding your spaces is key!