Behind the Buzzwords: Where Are Black and African Women in the Autism Conversation?

Neurodivergent, hyper-fixations, the touch of the ‘Tism. These are some of the many buzzwords that have been gaining so much traction in pop culture that it has allowed the conversation regarding Autism to be more commonly discussed. The recent public visibility of this neurodevelopmental condition has greatly increased research studies in recent years, encouraging understanding of various perspectives. 

However, despite the increase in research on autism in several different groups, it is notable that there is a significant lack of understanding when it comes to Black and African women in the diaspora. It begs the question: why? 

From research studies to media portrayals, African and Black women have often been left out of the conversation about autism in its entirety. But what is the cause of this?  One factor that contributes to the lack of research could be based around expectations placed on black and African women. The expectation that black women are supposed to be strong, dependable, and resilient, seems to contribute to the misinterpretation of neurodiverse behavior that can often be seen in Black and African women. This expectation is especially to be emotionally strong for friends and family. When emotional regulation challenges, often associated with autism, arise, they may be seen as dramatic behavior or weakness. 

This cultural point of view, along with so many other biases and stereotypes, of black and African women has had a heavy impact as to why many black women don’t get a proper diagnosis or not get diagnoses at all. They are then left navigating the world feeling behind, lost, or out of place. 

In addition to the cultural expectations, biases in the medical world also play a part in the lack of research regarding Black and African women and autism.

It is no secret that black women in the healthcare industry are often ignored or belittled, so it would not be hard to immediately understand why autism researchers would be quick to be dismissive of the experiences of black and African women. Beyond that, negligence are the barriers in place that would allow participation in autism research. 

The lack of cultural understanding, and the absence of representation in research only widens the gap when it comes to understanding autism in Black and African women. 

So, what can be done?

Since April is autism awareness month, my hope is that with my voice I can be a part of the solution. Even though this is a simple blog post, building more awareness for Black and African women in the diaspora could encourage future research and help remove shame. Building awareness shouldn't isolate and ignore an entire demographic—it should lead to real understanding and change. To support Black and African autistic women meaningfully, we must first recognize that their experiences exist—and deserve visibility, validation, and inclusion.