Advocacy, Healing, and Liberation for Black Disabled Youth

Welcome to the Autism in Black Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC. In this episode, we're honored to have Cheryl Poe, the founder and Executive Director of Advocating 4 Kids, Inc., a special education advocacy organization dedicated to empowering parents and professionals, especially those supporting Black and Brown children with disabilities, through resources, information, and workshops.

 

In This Episode:

In this powerful episode, advocate Cheryl Poe joins us to unpack the “double burden” Black Autistic individuals and their families face—navigating both racism and ableism across medical, educational, and social systems. Cheryl breaks down how misdiagnosis, exclusionary school practices, and cultural bias create lasting harm. She calls for advocacy spaces that truly center Black Autistic voices, not just include them, and highlights the need for culturally responsive services and support for Black-led organizations. Cheryl also shares how healing—rooted in Black culture, community, and joy—can be a powerful form of resistance. This episode is a must-listen for Black parents of autistic children and those dedicated to real, transformative change.

 

Listeners will explore:

• The Double Burden: Navigating Racism and Ableism

Discuss how Black Autistic individuals and families face compounded discrimination—from misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and cultural bias in clinical settings to exclusionary discipline in schools. Highlight how systems often pathologize Black children’s behaviors instead of offering support, leading to over-policing, seclusion, and school pushout.

• Reclaiming Advocacy: Centering Black Autistic Voices

Emphasize the importance of creating advocacy spaces that center Black Autistic perspectives, not just include them. Call out performative inclusion in disability spaces and discuss the need for culturally responsive services, leadership opportunities, and funding directly for Black-led organizations.

• Healing as Resistance: Building Intergenerational Strength

Explore the emotional and generational toll of navigating hostile systems—and how healing practices rooted in Black culture, community, and joy are vital.Talk about redefining advocacy through storytelling, connection, and radical self-love as tools for collective healing and liberation.

 

Connect with Cheryl Poe:

Websites: https://adv4kidsinc.org/

 

About Cheryl Poe:

With a Master’s Degree in Urban Education and Counseling and extensive postgraduate studies in psychology, Mrs. Poe brings a wealth of expertise. With a deep passion for advocacy, education, and equity, Mrs. Poe continues to lead the charge in ensuring every child receives the support and services they deserve.

 

Missed the 5th Annual Autism in Black Conference?

Didn’t catch Cheryl's workshop or other insightful sessions from the recent 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

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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.