Black History Month 2022: Black Health and Wellness in the Autism Community

This Black History Month, the theme is Black Health and Wellness. But what does this mean, and how does it relate to black people with autism?

The World Health Organization defines Health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. Meanwhile, Pfizer defines Wellness as “act of practicing healthy habits on a daily basis to attain better physical and mental health outcomes, so that instead of just surviving, you’re thriving”. Both Health and Wellness are important for all human beings, but especially for marginalized communities such as disabled people and people of color, who may have a harder time obtaining the resources they need.

Research shows that although white and black children get diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at similar rates, black children tend to get diagnosed later in life (AAP News). This is detrimental, because early diagnosis and intervention is crucial to getting resources and improving the quality of life for children with autism as they develop. According to this article by NPR, the obstacles black people with autism face may include :

  • Being misunderstood by colleagues or authority figures

  • Being misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed by mental health professionals

  • Less financial and health resources within their own community.

As a result, it is important to uphold health and wellness for individuals who identify as both autistic and Black. For them, Black Health and Wellness means:

  • Being heard and validated by those in positions of authority, such as doctors and educators

  • Feeling represented by the media

  • Getting diagnosed as early as possible

  • Finding support within and beyond their own community

In honor of Black History Month, we have compiled a list of organizational resources to help black families with autism thrive.

Organizations that Provide Resources for African Americans with Autism:

The Color of Autism Foundation: Non-profit organization dedicated to serving African American families with children with autism. They have programs that educate parents on how to become their children’s advocates, as well as social skills groups so that children can improve their social and communication skills.

The Answer Inc: Provides education, support, and advocacy for autistic individuals and their families in the greater Chicago area while bringing their community together. It was founded by Debra Vines after she realized that there was no support group for families of color with autism in her community.

Organization for Autism Research: Offers the Synchrony Scholarship for Autistic Students of Color, which provides a scholarship to help people of color with autism pay for any post-secondary undergraduate education.

Autism and Race: Grants $100 to $500 in financial support to persons of color with autism through the Autistic People of Color Fund.



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