In honor of Black History Month, this edition of E-Speaks shares two
empowering stories from the Black autism community and valuable
resources to help navigate an autism diagnosis. Read the story of
Jada, a high school junior who is embracing her voice and knocking
down any barriers that stand in her way. Then, hear from MeMe, a mom
who shares her son Hendrix's diagnosis experience at age 2.
Find important information about autism screening and early diagnosis
in the Black community, and read about our work with the The Color of
Autism Foundation to support underserved families in Detroit.
Jada B: Shattering misconceptions in the autism community
Jada is a high school junior in Alabama who refuses to let her autism
limit her from achieving her goals. In this blog, her mom Danisha
shares how her daughter was recently selected "Miss Photogenic
2022" in her school pageant and continues to knock down barriers
as a Black autistic teenager. Read more about Jada's autism journey
here: [link removed]
An autism mom's hope of a kinder, more inclusive world for her
6-year-old son
When Hendrix was diagnosed with autism at 2, his mom MeMe was
admittedly scared. She knew very little about autism and was uncertain
about what the future would hold for her son as he embarked on this
lifelong journey. Today, Hendrix, at age 6, continues to make strides
toward reaching his full potential. Read more about the family's
story in this blog: [link removed]
Research reveals racial differences in perception of autism prior to
diagnosis
A recent study shows racial differences in parents'
understanding and knowledge of autism prior to their child's
diagnosis. While all parents expressed concerns about their
child's developmental challenges, white parents were more likely
to suspect their child had autism than parents of Black, Hispanic,
Asian and multiracial children. These results highlight the importance
of better education and early interventions for racial and ethnic families. Learn more: [link removed]
Learn about autism screening and early intervention
Research from the CDC ([link removed] ) shows that significant progress has been made in closing the autism diagnosis gap between Black and white children-but there is
still work to be done. If you have concerns about your child's
development, take a screening
questionnaire, learn the signs of autism and take your first steps on
your autism journey. Resources available in English ([link removed] ) and Spanish ([link removed] ).
Autism Speaks works to improve care and services for Black families in
Detroit
Families and caregivers in underserved, communities often
struggle to access quality care, education and services for their
autistic children. That is why Autism Speaks is partnering with The
Color of Autism Foundation ([link removed] ). The Color of Autism Foundation to deliver a new training program that
teaches caregivers in Detroit the skills they need to set
their autistic children on the path to success. Learn more in this
Q&A with Autism Speaks' director of clinical services and
inclusion, Pamela Dixon: [link removed]
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