BHM 2022: Black Representation in the Autism Community
CEO of The Answer Inc. Debra Vines with her son, Jason Harlan, who has autism. (Source: Chicago Magazine)
Representation and advocacy is crucial for black people with autism and their families. To commemorate Black History Month, we are highlighting some black autism advocates and public figures, as well as different reading materials by black authors that portray their experiences with autism.
Black Advocates, Influencers and Public Figures with/for Autism:
Debra Vines
The mother of an adult with autism, Debra Vines is the founder and CEO of The Answer, an organization that provides recreational, educational, and advocacy services for people with autism and their families. One of the things that sets her organization apart from the others is that it specifically focuses on the issues faced by communities of color.
Stephen Wiltshire
Famous black British artist with autism. His photographic memory allows him to draw beautiful panoramas of cities from memory.
Catina Burkett
Licensed social worker and Bronx native. After being diagnosed with ASD at 46, she talks about the struggles she has faced as a black woman on the spectrum while advocating for more awareness and research into autism in black women. She has also written books on what it’s like to be a black woman with autism.
Armani Williams
The first openly autistic NASCAR driver, Armani Williams painted his car blue and added puzzle pieces to show that he’s autistic and proud.
Avery Ahmir
Influencer on TikTok with 58K followers (and many more views on his videos) who uses his platform to openly talk about his experiences with autism and advocates for more acceptance. You can view his content by searching @dreadfulrebel4x on TikTok or by clicking here.
Some books and other materials that may be useful for black families with individuals that have autism:
The Resistance, Persistence and Resilience of Black Families Raising Children with Autism
This book was co-authored by both professionals who specialize in the field of autism, and black parents who have had personal experiences raising a child who is black and on the spectrum and the challenges that come along with it. It brings light to the issues faced by black families, such as lack of access to certain resources and the lack of understanding toward black children with autism from educational institutions.
Reclaiming Our Health: A Guide to African American Wellness
This book written by black health professionals details common health problems for African Americans while also providing detailed guidance on what members of the community can do to become healthier. According to the author, she wrote the book to “empower our community to solve our own problems and save our own lives.”
Quinten Visits the Beach: A Story About Coping with Autism by Nikki C.
This is a wholesome children’s book about a child with autism going to the beach for the first time and learning how to cope with a new environment. It is written by an African American author and features black protagonists, which may help black children with autism and their families feel represented.
Catina Burkett has written books about what it’s like to be an African American with autism, especially from a woman’s point of view. These books are illustrated and also affordable.