Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects people of all races, but research has shown that Black children are often diagnosed later in life or misdiagnosed entirely. The Center for disease control ADDM reports have consistently noted that more white children are identified with ASD than Black or Hispanic children.
Everyone needs a support system. More importantly, Black parents need safe spaces. When we moved to Arizona I got the ball rolling to get my son services. Early intervention has been so beneficial, especially after receiving his autism diagnosis. Naturally, I ended up joining quite a few Facebook support groups for parents of autistic children. To say that was a huge mistake was an understatement. As with most social media groups they ended up being filled with misinformed individuals. One of the biggest things I noticed was that there weren’t very many people who looked like me. Not only that but they had no clue that Black autism awareness is just as important.
There was little to no understanding and support for autistic people of color.
What is Black Autism Awareness?
Black autism awareness refers to recognizing, understanding, and advocating for autism within the Black community. It involves raising awareness about the intersectionality of race and autism.
It’s also vital for people to understand that if your advocacy doesn’t include Black people, then you aren’t an advocate. Being an advocate involves addressing the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black individuals on the autism spectrum.
For the first time, I’ve had to explain to other parents that just because we both have autistic kids doesn’t mean that we are fighting the same fight.
How can you support Black Autism Awareness?
Once we had our son’s diagnosis I knew my first step was to educate myself. I didn’t want to just read books I wanted to hear from people who shared lived experiences as our family. I had so many questions that couldn’t be answered in any of the books I was reading. Even though I had that horrible experience with the Facebook support group before. I decided to go back but with a better sense of direction. To start I followed Black advocate parents. I wanted to connect more with Black communities. They helped me feel validated. I was able to find my voice so I could be a better advocate for my son.
By increasing my knowledge and understanding of autism within the Black community, I am able to challenge stigmas, misconceptions, and harmful stereotypes. There is a phrase “If you know one person with autism, then you know one person with autism.” It is often used to emphasize the uniqueness and individuality of each autistic individual. It highlights the fact that autism is a spectrum disorder, and no two individuals with autism are exactly alike.
Some of my favorite Black mothers:
Black autism awareness emphasizes the importance of amplifying Black autistic voices
It’s important to me to always center the lived experiences and voices of autistic people. Even though I share our journey on the blog. It’s because I want people to know they aren’t alone. However, it is essential to elevate and amplify the voices of autistics. That is the only way to truly foster understanding and acceptance. More than anything it is important for them to see themselves represented.
@nigh.functioning.autism – “not quite” functioning autistic mom sharing pieces of her life with us.
@fidgets.and.fries – A blogger, proud autistic woman, and mother. She shares about intersectionality, and helping to change people’s perception of autism.
@phenomenallyautistic – Black Autistic woman sharing her journey and love of fashion.
Support Black autism organizations
It’s crucial that we shed light on the specific needs of Black autistics. Black autism awareness also strives to address disparities and inequities that Black individuals with autism may face. Another way you can help is by supporting community organizations that focus on raising awareness and providing resources for Black individuals with autism. These organizations offer a variety of services such as advocacy, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.
@autisminblack – Maria is the CEO/Founder of Autism in Black Inc. Autism in Black aims to provide support to Black parents who have an autistic child, through educational and advocacy services. Autism in Black is dedicated to bringing awareness to Autism and reducing the stigma in the black community. Black families are supported through parent sessions, couples sessions, IEP training, parent advocacy, and more!
@colorofautism – The Color of Autism Foundation is a Non-Profit organization committed to educating and assisting families in the African American community with Autistic children. They serve as the connecting thread by connecting families to services and other families building a spectrum of care within communities of color.
@hollyrodfdn – The HollyRod Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by actress Holly Robinson Peete and her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete. The HollyRod Foundation focuses on raising awareness, providing access to treatment and therapy, and advocating for policies that benefit individuals with autism and Parkinson’s disease. The foundation provides resources and support for families, including financial assistance for autism-related expenses, educational and vocational programs, and initiatives that promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism.
Encourage open dialogue about neurodiversity
As a mother parenting with ADHD, I hope that by sharing it empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and others. Encouraging open dialogue is essential to promote inclusion and acceptance within our own community. I not only share about the different aspects of autism but also about mental health. I often get messages from people who are struggling to find support and resources. You never know who can be benefitting from listening to you share your story.
Furthermore, open dialogue enables discussions about the need for diverse representation. Discussions about inclusive autism research, and advocacy efforts that address the intersectionality of race and autism. This is also a good time to talk about the need for cultural competency in service providers.
You don’t have to wait for Black history month or autism awareness month to talk about Black autism awareness. By educating ourselves, supporting organizations, and promoting inclusivity within our communities we can make positive change happen. We need an equitable society where everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities regardless of their race or neurological differences.
It is essential to advocate for equal opportunities, representation, and culturally competent services for Black autistics in the autism community.
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