Neurodiverse Connection is proud to host Black Autistic Meetup, founded and lead by NdC Associate, Warda Farah. In this article, Warda reflects on the power of this invaluable space for belonging, representation, support and hope.

Black History Month, a time to honour and celebrate the immense contributions and resilience of Black individuals throughout history, also offers an opportunity to explore the intersecting identities that make each person unique. Among the remarkable individuals who have shaped history are Black autistic women, whose stories and experiences are often overlooked or untold. In this blog, we delve into what it means to be a Black autistic woman and how their presence enriches the tapestry of Black history.

What I’m writing about and advocating for may seem controversial to some and for others like myself it’s about time we talked about. The need for Black only spaces has recently become a debate due to the The Theatre Royal Stratford East has come under criticism after it asked all non-black customers not to attend a performance of the play ‘Tambo and Bones’.

Black, woman and autistic. These attributes all intersect and make my experience of the world and how I am perceived markedly different from my non-Black autistic peers. Racism, sexism, misogyny and ableism are things I cannot escape.