Dismayed, of Nuneaton

I've just seen an advert for something called Autistic Pride. Autistic Pride? What the fuck is that? Being autistic is not an achievement. It is not something that someone has had to strive to obtain. It is simply a way of being human, and something the autistic person has absolutely no control over, and no say in. It is not a matter for pride. By the same token, neither is it a matter for shame.
My problem with this event is, what is the point of flaunting something and trying to be different from everyone else? My idea of equality is that people are included and accepted. Why make a ghetto for yourself?

When I was younger, 'gay' people were oppressed. Not only were the laws of the land grossly unjust, but the press pandered to the vilest instincts of the unwashed masses. In those days I was very vocal about my sexuality. In those days people had to be. Our present-day lot is much better. People have equality under the law, and there is a much greater level of inclusion and acceptance than in former times. That's why I don't understand the point of Gay Pride in this day and age. I have exactly the same objections as to the above event.