Atlanta (AP) – When Tyrone Green’s youngest child was diagnosed with autism, his wife was eager to find support for their 3-year-old. However, Green found himself at a standstill. He was questioned about his son’s future and feelings of isolation, and no one, not even his wife or friends, seemed to grasp his reality.
“My wife couldn’t fully understand what I was experiencing as a black father. I had so many dreams and aspirations for my children,” said Green, who resides in Michigan. “She didn’t share those same feelings.”
In 2021, he joined a support group for Black fathers and connected with other dads eager to discuss their unique experiences. In 2023, they launched a podcast titled Autosim, where Black fathers share both the triumphs and challenges of raising an autistic child.
Green is encouraging more Black fathers of autistic children to participate in national discussions about autism through podcasts, nonprofits, and events. These men hope to be recognized as more than just supportive figures alongside their child’s mother; they aim to help other Black fathers accept an autism diagnosis and seek necessary assistance.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that influences how individuals communicate, process information, and engage with their surroundings. Federal data reveals that since 2020, Black children have a higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorder compared to white children, a shift attributed to improved awareness of autism, particularly in underrepresented communities.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has recently proposed the federal government undertake extensive research into the causes of autism, an area that has intrigued researchers for decades. He described autism as a “tragedy” that “destroys families,” claiming that individuals with autism often do not embrace careers, contribute to taxes, or engage in relationships.
However, many individuals with autism lead successful, socially enriched, and independent lives. Michael Hannon, a counseling professor at Montclair State University who studies the social and emotional aspects of autism in relation to Black fatherhood, argues that narratives like Kennedy’s can create a sense of danger.
Hannon remarked that it “literally diminishes the hopes of fathers, their identities, and their families,” referring to Kennedy’s characterization of autism.
Yet, Hannon also notes that the affinity group of Black men raising children with autism is a powerful way to encourage emotional engagement among fathers.
“The challenge lies in convincing people to openly and honestly share their feelings, as this is uncommon among Black men and in the broader society,” he explained, noting that some may perceive vulnerability as a reflection on their parenting abilities.
Evan Polk mentioned that the most significant part of navigating the diagnosis of his 13-year-old daughter was learning to accept feelings of both “joy and chaos.” At first, he became overly protective.
“I turned into a helicopter dad,” Polk admitted. “I didn’t want anyone to hurt her. When I learned she was autistic, I felt like I needed to put on knee pads and elbow pads for her crazy world.”
Over time, he learned to help his family be more patient with his daughter.
Dr. Berry Pierre initially played a secondary role in the support network for his autistic daughter, with his wife, Maria Davis Pierre, taking the lead.
The couple from Florida founded an organization focused on autism in the Black community, and for the first five years, Pierre noticed that their messaging had not effectively targeted Black fathers.
“Whether it was at school or during personal education meetings, moms were always present,” Pierre observed. “But we dug deeper and started asking, ‘What’s really going on? Where are you guys?'”
Many Black fathers are equally involved as mothers, and Pierre aims to encourage more public conversations about autism among fathers.
“Dads are there, but I know the public isn’t fully aware yet,” Pierre said. “Our goal is to illuminate what’s actually happening. Fathers are present. They’re engaged. And with this diagnosis, they’re dealing with even more challenges.”
Some fathers, like Nicholas Love from North Carolina, expressed that they were hesitant to publicly share their experiences raising children with autism, fearing misunderstanding.
“I was very cautious for a long time about discussing both my kids being on the spectrum,” said Love, CEO of the marketing agency Kulur Group. “I was hesitant to share photos on social media, always questioning if this image represents what ‘normal’ should look like.”
Now, he actively shares their journey online, understanding that employees might need flexibility due to pressing family matters, and advocates for greater paid leave for fathers, providing them with more opportunities to connect with their children.
“This is my reality… I must do my part to normalize this,” Love stated.
Green reiterated that his podcast and platforms like Autosim make it easier for Black fathers to convey stories of their children’s accomplishments and struggles, but he envisions “more support groups, more podcasts, more conversations.”
“I see a lot of Black women doing remarkable work, and I appreciate it deeply. As a Black man with a Black family, I want this conversation to be more prominently recognized,” Green concluded.
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Source: apnews.com