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 minority 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.

An autism mom’s hope of a kinder, more inclusive world for her 6-year-old son

When Hendrix was diagnosed with autism at age 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.

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 minority families. Learn more.

Learn about autism screening and early intervention

Research from the CDC 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 are available in English and Spanish.

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 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.

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