Navigating Autism as a Black Parent: Our Story, Our Struggle, Our Strength

• By: Danyale Sturdivant, MSSW Living Autism Out Loud
• April 23rd, 2025
• advocacy, cultural competence, culture, developmental delays, diagnosis, disability justice, early intervention, equitable healthcare, family, neurodiversity inclusion, parent advocacy, systemic barriers
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When my son Joshua was first diagnosed with developmental delays—and later with autism—our lives changed in profound ways. The impact wasn’t just emotional; it was deeply systemic. We entered a world not designed for families like ours. Our story began with quiet questions. Why...

Rights and Challenges for Autistic People with Communication Disabilities in the Legal System

• By: Staff CommunicationFIRST
• July 5th, 2023
• AAC, ableism, accommodations, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, communication, cultural competence, disability rights laws, discrimination, equal access to public services, guardianship, law enforcement, nonspeaking, speech-related disabilities, stereotypes, stigma, Summer 2023 Issue, the legal system
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Police should be the last resort.... I shouldn’t have to call the police if my son is having a meltdown. When I get up in the morning, I say, “Thank God he’s not dead,” and “Thank God I’m not dead.” - Kerima Çevik, activist and parent of a nonspeaking autistic son (Sokol,...