Autistic and Black
Autistic and Black
Our Experiences of Growth, Progress and Empowerment
"It’s time we bring forward Black autistic pain points and celebrate the triumphs of ourselves, family members, and organizations that care for these individuals. Through following the real stories of others from around the world, I hope fellow Black and autistic individuals will be empowered to realize that being Black and autistic is enough."
In this powerful insight into the lives of Black autistic people, Kala Allen Omeiza brings together a community of voices from across the world, spanning religions, sexuality and social economic status to provide a deep and rich understanding of what it means to be autistic and Black.
Exploring everything from self-love and appreciation, to the harsh realities of police brutality, anti-Black racism, and barriers to care, as well as amplifying the voices of the inspiring advocates who actively work towards change, protection, and acceptance for themselves and others, this book is an empowering force, reminding you that as a Black autistic person, you are enough.
Those of us who are both Black and autistic have stories to tell, and the moment to share them is now. This is an important work that weaves together a tapestry of lived experiences that have historically remained obscured. For those who seek to deepen their understanding of Black autistic experiences and foster an environment of empathy and change, this book is a must-have for the bookshelf.
In ‘Autistic and Black', Kala Allen Omeiza masterfully weaves together 20 poignant voices, creating an impressive tapestry charting diverse journeys with autism across global landscapes. A transformative exploration of identity, love, and advocacy, this book is a testament to resilience and the vibrant tapestry of the Black autistic experience.
Kala’s book ‘Autistic and Black' paints a diverse and enriching picture of lived experiences. I was transported across continents through the pages of the book and the lens of the neurodivergent. The message of the book was thus conveyed so artistically, making it a must-read for any and everyone!
It is always wonderful when people are allowed to tell their own story. Reading Kala’s book felt like sitting with friends, who are invited - finally - to share their personal experiences of being autistic. 'Autistic and Black' is a wonderful read.
Kala Allen Omeiza is an autistic writer and founder of a minority mental health initiative I’m Heard. She is the author of novels about neurodiversity and autism awareness including Afrotistic (2022) and The Worst Saturday Ever (2023). As a former mental health researcher, Kala has worked on various research projects on mental health and neurodiverse conditions at Harvard, Duke, Oxford, Harvard Medical School, and as a US Fulbright scholar in Nigeria. Kala is a graduate of Miami University and a MSc graduate of the University of Oxford in the UK.
