Dear Parents Of Black Autistic Children, Black Autistic Adults And Professionals Who Work With Black Autistic Individuals:
The rumors are true—this year’s Autism in Black Conference will be one for the books. We’re excited to announce that the 2024 conference, happening April 11-13th in West Palm Beach, FL, will be our 5th annual event. And yes, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever before!
“Wait… what? Why is this such a big deal?” you might ask. Well, this year’s theme, Building Community, Embracing Connection, speaks to something we’ve been working towards for years—a space where Black autistic voices are uplifted, heard, and celebrated.
But here’s the thing: This conference is about more than just a gathering. It’s about a movement. Even though this is our 5th annual event, this isn’t just a milestone—it’s a launchpad for the next phase of our work to create lasting change in the Black autistic community.
So whether you’re attending in person or virtually, you’ll be part of something bigger. Expect deep conversations, impactful learning, and opportunities to build relationships that will continue long after the conference ends.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. The time to connect is now. Register today, and let’s continue to build community, embrace connection, and change the future for our autistic Black community.
Sincerely,
Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC Founder of Autism in Black, Inc
Dear Parents Of Black Autistic Children, Black Autistic Adults And Professionals Who Work With Black Autistic Individuals:
The rumors are true—this year’s Autism in Black Conference will be one for the books. We’re excited to announce that the 2024 conference, happening April 11-13th in West Palm Beach, FL, will be our 5th annual event. And yes, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever before!
“Wait… what? Why is this such a big deal?” you might ask. Well, this year’s theme, Building Community, Embracing Connection, speaks to something we’ve been working towards for years—a space where Black autistic voices are uplifted, heard, and celebrated.
But here’s the thing: This conference is about more than just a gathering. It’s about a movement. Even though this is our 5th annual event, this isn’t just a milestone—it’s a launchpad for the next phase of our work to create lasting change in the Black autistic community.
So whether you’re attending in person or virtually, you’ll be part of something bigger. Expect deep conversations, impactful learning, and opportunities to build relationships that will continue long after the conference ends.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. The time to connect is now. Register today, and let’s continue to build community, embrace connection, and change the future for our autistic Black community.
Sincerely,
Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC Founder of Autism in Black, Inc
What's the Problem with Other Conferences?
Missing the Mark
While there are many conferences that address autism and related topics, few truly focus on the unique challenges and experiences of the Black autism community. Most conferences miss the mark when it comes to understanding the intersectionality of race and disability, often leaving out culturally responsive support, resources, and perspectives.
At the Autism in Black Conference, we don’t just talk about autism—we talk about Black autism, honoring the nuances, strengths, and challenges that come with it. Our goal is to provide a space where Black autistic individuals and their families can find the support they need, connect with others who share similar experiences, and access resources designed with their unique needs in mind.
We’re here to fill the gap that other conferences leave behind, offering a platform that prioritizes cultural awareness, empathy, and empowerment. This is the space where Black autistic voices are amplified, not overlooked.
The Problem: Marginalization of Black Voices
Moreover, many conferences fail to provide a platform for Black neurodivergent individuals to share their lived experiences and expertise. This omission not only perpetuates the marginalization of Black voices within the autism community but also hinders meaningful progress toward inclusivity and equity.
At the Autism in Black Conference, we make it a priority to center Black autistic individuals in every aspect of our programming. Our sessions are led by those with firsthand knowledge of the unique challenges and triumphs of being both Black and neurodivergent. By amplifying these voices, we ensure that the conversation remains rooted in authenticity, creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all attendees.
This is your chance to hear from the real experts—Black neurodivergent individuals who are rewriting the narrative and leading the way toward a more inclusive future for the autism community.
Filling the Gap: A Conference by and for the Black Autism Community
At Autism in Black®, we recognize the shortcomings of mainstream autism conferences and are committed to filling the gap. Our conference is designed by and for the Black autism community, with a focus on our unique needs, experiences, and aspirations. We create a space where Black autistic individuals, families, professionals, and advocates can come together to learn, share, and empower one another.
This isn’t just another conference. It’s a movement—one that honors and celebrates the richness of Black autistic voices, providing opportunities for deep connection, authentic learning, and transformative change.
Join us as we build a community of support, knowledge, and inspiration to help us thrive together.
Need More Reasons To Go?
Empowerment: Gain valuable insights, strategies, and resources to empower yourself and your community in navigating the unique challenges of autism within the Black community.
Education: Learn from renowned experts, advocates, and individuals with lived experiences who are leading the way in promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for Black autistic individuals.
Connection: Connect with a diverse community of Black individuals, families, professionals, and advocates who share your experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
Inspiration: Be inspired by powerful stories of resilience, strength, and triumph as we celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black autistic individuals and their families. Action: Leave the conference equipped with actionable strategies, tools, and resources to create positive change in your own life and within your community.
Inclusivity: Experience a conference that values and celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion, with programming specifically tailored to the needs and experiences of the Black autism community
Support: Access a supportive and nurturing environment where you can openly share your experiences, seek guidance, and find solidarity with others who understand and empathize with your journey.
Need A Reason To Be There In Person?
The host location for the conference
Palm Beach Convention Center
We’re excited to welcome you to West Palm Beach for the 5th Annual Autism in Black Conference! To ensure a seamless experience, be sure to book your hotel reservation at the Hilton West Palm Beach, where the conference will take place. With exclusive conference rates, you can enjoy comfortable accommodations just steps away from all the action. Don’t wait—secure your stay now by using the link below:
Book your hotel reservation now
Testimonials
2025 Live Speakers
Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC
Carl Frizell
Doena Gaines-Moore
Rosen Gordon
Dion Chavis
Dr. Althea Simpson
Charlotte Bachelor
Destiny Huff
Dr. Berry Pierre
Cheryl Poe
Quintina Briscoe
Sheena D. Brown
Christina Schmidt
Schedule
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2025 Pre-Recorded Speakers
Aundrea Caldwell-McMullen
Charles Faulks
Samara Toussaint
Kayla Bryson
Jamilah Bashir
Kaishawna Fleming
Thressa Pine-Smith
Keita Edwards-Adams
Ivory Duncan
Erin Nkele
Cori Fonville Foster
Welcome Back to the
Autism In Black® Conference
Our 6th annual theme: Rooted in Healing: Cultivating Understanding, Strength, and Joy
A three-day gathering rooted in culture and care, created for autistic individuals, parents, professionals, advocates, and those who serve our community with intention.
The 6th Annual Autism in Black Conference
Dates: April 17th–19th, 2026
Times: Friday (17th) 9am-5pm EST with VIP session that evening, Saturday (18th) 9am-5pm EST with conference mixer at 7pm, Sunday (19th) 9am-1pm EST
Location: Palm Beach Convention Center and online
Formats: In-person, virtual, and VIP/Platinum upgrade options
Replay Access: Included with every ticket
Continuing Education: Optional CEU hours available
Conference Sponsors
Conference Sponsors
What You’ll Get at the Conference
What You’ll Get at the Conference
- Three days of culture-centered, expert-led sessions designed with Black autistic individuals, families, and professionals in mind.
- Attend your way: Join us in-person in Palm Beach, FL or virtually from anywhere.
- CEU hours available for professionals looking to grow their culturally responsive practice.
- Replay access included so you can watch on your own time.
- A vibrant vendor marketplace and networking spaces to connect, build, and vibe with community.
- Keynote address from Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC, founder of Autism in Black®.
Proven, Trusted, Rooted in Us
Since our first Autism in Black® Conference in 2019, this space has grown year after year, because it fills a need too often overlooked:
Accessible, culturally responsive autism education that centers the experiences of Black families, Black autistic individuals, and those who serve our community.
With over 3,000 attendees and counting, this isn’t just a conference.
It’s a movement. And we’re just getting started.
Why People Keep Coming Back?
- Access to 15+ dynamic sessions led by clinicians, educators, advocates, and community leaders.
- Training that reflects real life, centered on the lived experiences of Black autistic individuals and our families.
- Flexible hybrid format so you can join in-person or virtually, whatever fits your life.
- Strategies you can use immediately, in classrooms, therapy spaces, advocacy work, and at home.
- CEU opportunities with a clear path to earn credits and grow your professional practice.
When I created Autism in Black, it wasn’t because I had a grand plan. It was because I kept seeing families like yours fighting the same battle our family was fighting. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a mother of three neurodivergent children (two who are autistic), and an autistic adult myself, I was moving through systems that weren’t designed for us. I know what it feels like to have your concerns dismissed. I know what it feels like to advocate without a roadmap, and to carry the weight of being the one who always has to push a little harder.
I remember thinking, “There has to be a space where our experiences aren’t treated as an afterthought.”
That thought became Autism in Black.
When I created Autism in Black, it wasn’t because I had a grand plan. It was because I kept seeing families like yours fighting the same battle our family was fighting. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a mother of three neurodivergent children (two who are autistic), and an autistic adult myself, I was moving through systems that weren’t designed for us. I know what it feels like to have your concerns dismissed. I know what it feels like to advocate without a roadmap, and to carry the weight of being the one who always has to push a little harder.
I remember thinking, “There has to be a space where our experiences aren’t treated as an afterthought.”
That thought became Autism in Black.
It started as a way to help parents feel understood and supported in a world that often overlooks the needs of Black autistic children and our families. I wanted a place where clinicians could learn how to serve our community in ways that honored culture, identity and lived experience. What I didn’t expect was how quickly it would grow or how many people were quietly waiting for a space like this.
As the community started to build, one message kept coming through:
We need a way to learn together. We need a space where we can show up as ourselves and not have to explain the basics before we can even get to the real conversations.
That’s what led me to create the Autism in Black® Conference in 2019.
That first year, families and professionals came together and the energy was like nothing I’d ever felt. People came in feeling cautious and left feeling connected. For many, it was the first time they had access to culturally responsive speakers who understood the unique challenges Black autistic individuals and our families face every day.
Since then, more than 3,000 attendees have joined us. Each year, I’m reminded why this conference matters. You deserve information that reflects your reality. You deserve community. You deserve a space where your child’s experiences aren’t minimized and your family’s needs aren’t ignored.
I built this conference for you.
I built it so you don’t have to walk this journey feeling unseen or unsupported.
I built it so you can learn from people who truly get it.
I built it so you can leave with tools you can use right away and a community that lasts long after the conference ends.
And I’d be honored to have you with us this year.
It started as a way to help parents feel understood and supported in a world that often overlooks the needs of Black autistic children and our families. I wanted a place where clinicians could learn how to serve our community in ways that honored culture, identity and lived experience. What I didn’t expect was how quickly it would grow or how many people were quietly waiting for a space like this.
As the community started to build, one message kept coming through:
We need a way to learn together. We need a space where we can show up as ourselves and not have to explain the basics before we can even get to the real conversations.
That’s what led me to create the Autism in Black® Conference in 2019.
That first year, families and professionals came together and the energy was like nothing I’d ever felt. People came in feeling cautious and left feeling connected. For many, it was the first time they had access to culturally responsive speakers who understood the unique challenges Black autistic individuals and our families face every day.
Since then, more than 3,000 attendees have joined us. Each year, I’m reminded why this conference matters. You deserve information that reflects your reality. You deserve community. You deserve a space where your child’s experiences aren’t minimized and your family’s needs aren’t ignored.
I built this conference for you.
I built it so you don’t have to walk this journey feeling unseen or unsupported.
I built it so you can learn from people who truly get it.
I built it so you can leave with tools you can use right away and a community that lasts long after the conference ends.
And I’d be honored to have you with us this year.
The Autism in Black Vision
We envision a world where Black autistic individuals and their families are seen, celebrated, and supported, not as an afterthought, but as the foundation for meaningful change. Through culturally informed education, we’re building a space for individuals to have access to tools that reduce harm, strengthen systems of support, and move them forward with clarity and confidence. By centering lived experience and elevating Black autistic voices, we are transforming how autism is understood and supported across our communities, creating lasting change that allows us all to thrive.
The Autism in Black Vision
We envision a world where Black autistic individuals and their families are seen, celebrated, and supported, not as an afterthought, but as the foundation for meaningful change. Through culturally informed education, we’re building a space for individuals to have access to tools that reduce harm, strengthen systems of support, and move them forward with clarity and confidence. By centering lived experience and elevating Black autistic voices, we are transforming how autism is understood and supported across our communities, creating lasting change that allows us all to thrive.
Live Speakers
Nicole Lemire-Garlic
Know Your Legal Rights for Black Autistic Adults and Children
Samara Toussaint
How I Masked So Well I Fooled Myself: Overcoming the Pain of Masking, Social Camouflaging, & Compensating
Dr. carl frizell
Thriving While Black and Autistic: Self-Advocacy, Accommodations, and the Power of Rest
Meghan Ashley
Caring With Curiosity: Understanding Autistic Children's Behaviors
Dr. Sheena Brown
Thriving While Black and Autistic: Self-Advocacy, Accommodations, and the Power of Rest
Dr. Destiny & Nathaniel Huff
What They Didn’t Teach Us: Learning to Celebrate Our Child’s Brain, Our Way
Erin Nkele
Rooted & Radiant: Celebrating Black, Gender Diverse & Autistic Lives
Camille Robinson
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone: Finding Joy, Support, and Strength in Community
Cheryl Poe
“Advocacy Is a Healing Practice” Rewriting the Special Education Narrative for Black Autistic Families
Pre - Recorded Speakers
Leroy Smith
My Brother’s Keeper: Strengthening Empathy, Co-Regulation, and Boundaries for the Siblings of Neurodivergent Black Boys
Jamiel Owens
The important role that Fathers play in the Autism community
Heather Clarke
What They Didn’t Teach Us: Learning to Celebrate Our Child’s Brain, Our Way
Heather Boatwright Mims
Strength In the Spectrum - How to navigate thru divorce and co parent with special needs child
Dr. Kia Everett
Breaking the Silence: Autism Awareness, Advocacy, and Access in Black Communities
Insights From Previous Speakers
VIDEO TESTIMONIALS
The Power of Coming Together
Don’t Wait Another Year to Get the Support You Deserve
Every year, we hear the same thing from families and professionals who attend the Autism in Black® Conference:
“I wish I had done this sooner.”
It’s not that people don’t care,it’s that life gets busy. Schedules fill up. And so often, we’re taught to put ourselves and our needs last. But waiting another year can mean staying overwhelmed longer than you need to. It can mean missing out on tools, guidance, and community that could shift everything, right now.
This is your reminder:
You don’t have to go through another season feeling unheard, unsupported, or alone.
Don’t Wait Another Year to Get the Support You Deserve
Every year, we hear the same thing from families and professionals who attend the Autism in Black® Conference:
“I wish I had done this sooner.”
It’s not that people don’t care,it’s that life gets busy. Schedules fill up. And so often, we’re taught to put ourselves and our needs last. But waiting another year can mean staying overwhelmed longer than you need to. It can mean missing out on tools, guidance, and community that could shift everything, right now.
This is your reminder:
You don’t have to go through another season feeling unheard, unsupported, or alone.
Why Now Matters
- In-person tickets are limited and tend to fill quickly.
- CEU hours and session replays are only available to registered attendees.
- Many sessions won’t be available publicly after the conference.
- Early pricing saves you money before rates increase.
If you’ve been looking for a space that centers your experience, honors your family, and equips you to advocate with clarity and confidence, this is that space. And it only happens once a year.
Your Community Is Already Gathering
Parents, clinicians, educators, and advocates from across the country are already signed up. They’re getting ready for three days of learning, connection, healing, and growth.
The only question is:
Will you be in the room with us?
Final Call to Join Us
Make the choice today that your family’s support, peace of mind, and empowerment can’t wait. Secure your spot, and step into a space that sees you.
The host location for the conference
Palm Beach Convention Center
We’re excited to welcome you to West Palm Beach for the 6th Annual Autism in Black Conference! To ensure a seamless experience, be sure to book your hotel reservation at the Hilton West Palm Beach, where the conference will take place. With exclusive conference rates, you can enjoy comfortable accommodations just steps away from all the action. Don’t wait—secure your stay now by using the link below:
Register for the 6th Annual Autism in Black Conference in West Palm Beach or Attend Online
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Summary
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The theme for this year’s conference is Rooted In Healing while Cultivating Understanding Strength, And Joy.
The in-person conference will be held at the Palm Beach Convention Center in Palm Beach, Florida. The convention center is connected to our host hotel so you can walk from your room to the conference location.
This event is designed for parents, caregivers, educators, advocates, professionals, and Black autistic individuals seeking tools, resources, and community connections. Whether you’re looking to support someone in your life or expand your own advocacy, this conference is for you.
Yes! The Autism in Black® Conference is a hybrid event. You can attend in person or virtually, and all registered attendees will receive access to session replays.
The conference will take place April 17–19, 2026. Friday and Saturday are full-day experiences Sunday is a shorter day, ending early afternoon
General Admission includes access to all standard sessions (in-person or virtual), session replays, the vendor marketplace, Q&A and networking spaces. In-person attendees also get access to the Saturday night mixer. VIP includes everything in General Admission plus early marketplace access (in-person), priority seating, a digital VIP welcome kit, Friday & Saturday lunch (in-person), and a VIP-only networking session. Platinum VIP includes everything in VIP plus front-row seating, a premium welcome package, exclusive Platinum-only gathering, one-on-one organizer support, and access to bonus materials.
CEUs are not included in any ticket tier and must be purchased separately. We are also currently working on approval for home-based CE credits, which would allow attendees who cannot attend live (in person or online) to earn CEUs by watching the replay.
The conference will include sessions on: Advocacy in schools and communities. Navigating systemic barriers for Black autistic individuals. Mental health and emotional well-being. Building support networks for families and professionals.
Yes, space is limited for in-person attendance to ensure an intimate and impactful experience.
Yes. All attendees (in-person and virtual) will receive replay access to the sessions
Yes please email us at support@autisminblack.org
All sales are final however you can transfer your ticket up until April 1st, 2026.
Yes, the Hilton West Palm Beach which is located right next to the convention center at 600 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Here is the Reservation link: https://www.autisminblack.org/conference-reservation-2026 Reservations can also be made by Calling our hotel directly at 561-231-6000, Option 1 or 1-855-757-4985 and booking reservations through our reservations team. Group Code Reference: ZAIB
Absolutely. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or deep into it, the sessions offer real-life strategies, culturally responsive guidance, and community you can trust.
Yes! The conference intentionally includes Black autistic voices, and autistic adults are not only welcomed, we are centered. We offer content created by and for Black neurodivergent people, along with affirming community space.
No. While the conference centers Black autistic individuals, families, and cultural experiences, it is open to all who are committed to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practice.
Travel and lodging are not included in the ticket price. For in-person attendees, we’ll provide access to discounted hotel room blocks. Details are shared on this registration page.
Yes! Both in-person and virtual attendees will have access to our vendor marketplace, filled with affirming businesses, services, and resources created for our community.
You can reach us at support@autisminblack.org and our team will be happy to assist you.
