In this blog we're excited to bring you an insightful conversation with Reena Anand, a passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Reena using her voice and expertise to explore how neurodiversity intersects with race and impacts the experiences of neurodivergent individuals in our society.

Reena delivers impactful training and programs on neurodiversity, focusing on the intersectionality of race, ethnicity and culture and its significance in shaping the experiences of neurodivergent people. As a proud mother of two autistic children, she is deeply committed to advocating for the rights and fair treatment of neurodivergent individuals. Her work helps organisations understand these intersections and create inclusive cultures where every identity is valued and welcomed.

In this Q&A, Reena shares her thoughts on the crucial intersection of neurodiversity and race, and explains why this conversation is more important now than ever.

1. Hi Reena, thank you for your time. We’d love to learn more about the work you do to advocate for a more neurodiverse and inclusive world, and why this is so important to you.

Thank you for having me. My work in advocating for neurodiversity and inclusivity is deeply personal. Growing up in a world that often misunderstands or overlooks neurodivergent people, especially within marginalised communities, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of that exclusion. It’s not just about representation, it’s about creating systems where neurodivergent individuals can thrive, where their differences are celebrated rather than stigmatised. A more inclusive world benefits everyone, and it’s critical that we dismantle the societal barriers that prevent neurodivergent individuals from accessing the opportunities they deserve.

2. Could you please share more on how neurodiversity intersects with race and how this impacts the experience neurodivergent people have in society?

The intersection of neurodiversity and race is quite significant, but often overlooked. Neurodivergent people of colour, particularly those from South Asian backgrounds, experience multiple layers of marginalisation. Society’s biases around race often exacerbate the challenges that neurodivergent individuals face, leading to misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, or even lack of diagnosis. In many cases, neurodivergent people of colour are not seen through a compassionate lens, and assumptions based on stereotypes can cloud their experiences. It’s crucial to understand that race and neurodivergence are intertwined in ways that shape an individual's experience of education, healthcare, and broader societal interactions.

3. When it comes to cultural biases, how do these impact the diagnosis and understanding of autism within South Asian communities?

Cultural biases play a massive role in the diagnosis and understanding of autism within South Asian communities. For many, there is still a stigma around mental health and developmental differences, and autism is often misunderstood or not discussed at all. This can lead to a reluctance to seek diagnosis, as families may fear judgement or ostracism. In addition, professionals from outside the community may not always be culturally competent, meaning they miss key indicators or dismiss concerns because they don’t understand the context. This gap in understanding delays diagnosis and support, which can have a lasting impact on the individual and their family.

4. What are some common misconceptions about autism in South Asian cultures, and how can they be addressed?

A common misconception is that autism is something to be 'fixed' or that it’s the result of poor parenting or upbringing. There’s also this notion that an autistic individual can't live a full or independent life, which is simply not true. These misconceptions can be addressed through education and visibility. Having open, honest conversations within communities is crucial. It’s also about sharing stories and experiences of neurodivergent South Asians to challenge the stereotypes. Community leaders, educators, and healthcare providers need to be more informed and open-minded to foster a more supportive environment.

5. Can you share any personal experiences that highlight the intersection of autism and South Asian heritage?

Growing up in a South Asian family, I often felt that the expectations placed on me didn’t always align with my neurodivergent needs. There’s a strong emphasis on academic achievement and conforming to societal norms, and when you don’t fit that mould, it can be quite isolating. I’ve seen this with others in the community as well – the pressure to meet cultural expectations can sometimes overshadow the need for understanding and supporting neurodivergence. It’s a delicate balance to navigate, and that’s why advocating for both cultural understanding and neurodiversity is so important.

6. How can allies and community members support the advocacy efforts for autism awareness and acceptance in South Asian communities?

Allies can play a huge role by listening and amplifying the voices of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Educating themselves on both autism and the cultural nuances within South Asian communities is key to being effective advocates. It’s also important to challenge misconceptions and stigma when they come up, even if it’s uncomfortable. Creating safe spaces for conversations and offering support without judgement can make a world of difference. Additionally, allies should advocate for more inclusive services that understand the specific needs of South Asian autistic individuals and their families.

7. What specific challenges do South Asian families face in seeking support for autistic family members?

One of the biggest challenges is the lack of culturally sensitive support services. Many South Asian families feel that healthcare professionals don’t fully understand their cultural context, leading to a breakdown in communication and trust. There's also the stigma around autism, which can make families hesitant to seek help. Additionally, language barriers can be a significant hurdle, especially for older generations who may not be fluent in English. This makes navigating the healthcare and educational systems even more challenging, and families often feel like they are left to fend for themselves.

8. How can educators and employers better support South Asian autistic individuals?

Representation is key. It’s vital that South Asian autistic individuals see themselves reflected in the spaces they occupy – whether that’s in the classroom, the workplace, or in wider society. Educators and employers can play a crucial role by not only creating inclusive environments but also ensuring that neurodivergent people from all backgrounds are visible and valued. This could mean having diverse role models, incorporating culturally relevant materials into lessons, or ensuring that leadership teams reflect the communities they serve. When individuals see people like themselves succeeding, it sends a powerful message that their identity and experience are understood and appreciated. This, coupled with cultural competency, flexible support, and reasonable adjustments, helps foster a sense of belonging and encourages neurodivergent individuals to thrive without feeling the pressure to conform to societal or cultural expectations.

9. What initiatives or organisations are currently making strides in supporting South Asian autistic individuals and their families?

There are several initiatives making great progress in supporting South Asian autistic individuals and their families. One such initiative is the Neurodiversity Network, part of the Sikh Human Rights Group (SHRG), based at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall (Park Avenue). They are providing culturally sensitive resources and raising awareness within the South Asian community, creating a safe space for families to access support, education, and advocacy, while working to break down the stigma around autism and neurodivergence.

Another important organisation is SEN Seva, which specialises in supporting children with special educational needs, including autism, within the South Asian community. SEN Seva offers a range of services, from providing guidance on navigating the UK’s education system to assisting families in accessing appropriate support for their children. They work closely with families, educators, and local authorities to ensure that South Asian children with autism receive the tailored support they need to thrive, both academically and socially. Their culturally aware approach is key in addressing the specific challenges faced by South Asian families, making them an invaluable resource.

10. How do you create safe spaces for people to learn, share, and grow, especially when addressing sensitive topics like autism and cultural biases?

Creating safe spaces requires empathy and understanding. It’s about allowing people to express themselves without fear of judgement and making sure their voices are heard. I try to facilitate open conversations by creating an atmosphere of respect and confidentiality, where everyone’s experiences are valued. When addressing sensitive topics like autism and cultural biases, it’s important to approach things with care, making sure that the conversation is inclusive and accessible. Offering resources, education, and ongoing support helps people feel empowered to engage with these issues, and ultimately, it’s about building trust and community.

11. How do you envision the future of autism support and awareness in South Asian contexts evolving over the next decade?

I’m hopeful that over the next decade, autism support and awareness within South Asian communities will evolve significantly. I envision a future where the stigma surrounding autism and other neurodivergent conditions is greatly reduced, and families feel empowered to seek support without fear of judgement. With increasing education and advocacy, I believe more culturally competent services will emerge, allowing for better understanding and tailored care for neurodivergent individuals.

We’re likely to see a stronger focus on early diagnosis and intervention, as well as more open conversations about neurodiversity in cultural spaces, including religious and community centres. The role of grassroots organisations and initiatives, like the Neurodiversity Network, SEN Seva, and Daryeel Autism, will be pivotal in continuing this progress, ensuring that support systems are accessible and relevant to South Asian families.