Intersectionality (Neurodivergence & Race)

Being both neurodivergent and a person of colour means navigating the world with multiple identities that shape each other in profound ways. Your experience isn’t just neurodivergent plus racial minority — these parts of who you are interact, amplify each other, and create unique challenges and strengths.

This intersection plays out in real, often painful ways:

In getting recognition and support:

• Black and Brown children are significantly more likely to be seen as “behavioural problems” rather than neurodivergent when they show the same traits as white children
• Autism and ADHD are often diagnosed later (or not at all) in children of colour, leading to years without appropriate support
• Stimming or sensory behaviours might be misinterpreted as aggression or defiance
• Executive dysfunction might be labelled as laziness or lack of effort

In healthcare and education:

• Cultural biases in diagnostic tools mean your experiences might not be recognised or validated
• Healthcare providers may not understand how cultural factors interact with neurodivergent traits
• School discipline policies might disproportionately affect neurodivergent students of colour
• The cost and accessibility of diagnosis can be a bigger barrier

But also in resilience and strength:

• Many communities of colour have long traditions of accommodating difference and supporting diverse ways of being
• Growing up navigating multiple forms of otherness can build incredible adaptability and insight
• Cultural values around community and family support can provide resources that clinical models miss
• Your perspective enriches neurodivergent communities with experiences and wisdom that are often overlooked

The truth is, mainstream understanding of neurodivergence has been built primarily around white experiences. This means your journey might look different, take longer, or require advocating for yourself in ways that feel exhausting and unfair.

Your neurodivergent experience is valid, whether or not it fits standard descriptions. Your cultural background is a strength, not a barrier to understanding yourself. And you deserve support that sees and honours all of who you are.