Welcome to the Autism in Black Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC. In this episode, We're back and more grounded than ever. In this welcome back episode, host Maria Davis-Pierre shares why Autism in Black® took a pause and how the break brought clarity, new projects, and deeper purpose. This space continues to be rooted in truth-telling, joy, advocacy, and unapologetically centering Black Autistic voices.

 

In This Episode:

In this powerful episode, Maria breaks down why harmful narratives, like RFK Jr.'s recent comments calling autism an "epidemic", are dangerous, rooted in eugenics thinking, and erasing of Black neurodivergent lives. She calls out the ableism in public discourse and challenges listeners to demand better, for ourselves and our children.

This season will bring more bold conversations, community rooted healing, and tools for liberation. Whether you're a parent, educator, advocate, or autistic yourself, you belong here.

 

Listeners will explore:

• "Let's Talk About It" why autism isn't an epidemic, but ableism is
• The danger of anti-Black, eugenic narratives in autism spaces
• A re-grounding in the mission: centering Black Autistic lives in every episode

 

"We don't need to change our children—we need to change the world they're growing up in. And that's what we're here to do."

 

Connect with Maria Davis-Pierre:

Website: https://www.autisminblack.org

Instagram: @autisminblack

 

Maria Davis‑Pierre, LMHC is the Founder, President & CEO of Autism in Black® Inc., a licensed mental health counselor, coach, speaker, and author. She holds a B.S. in Sociology from Florida State University and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, where she's currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Family Therapy

 

Missed the 5th Annual Autism in Black Conference?

Did you miss the recent 5th annual Autism in Black® Conference? You can still access all the knowledge and insights. Purchase the replay to watch at your convenience here: https://funnel.autisminblack.org/2025-autism-in-black-conference-replay

 

Support and Connect with Autism in Black:

Website: www.autisminblack.org

Social Media: Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter: @autisminblack

Facebook: @autisminblk

Join our community for networking, resources, and advocacy: www.autisminblack.org/membership

 

Thank you for tuning into the Autism in Black Podcast! Share your thoughts using #aibpod on social media. Together, let's continue to build a more inclusive and supportive community.