My name is Abigail Hailu, and I am a Senior in Studio City, California. As the eldest sibling in a family with a wonderful teenager with autism, my brother and my parents have been my inspiration for my vision. Seeing my parents go through great efforts to help my brother and his amazing progress motivated me to help others have access to similar opportunities and resources. From sitting in on his ABA therapies and OT lessons, to helping my mom and dad raise a child with special needs, I have played an active part in seeing the developmental process of someone who exhibits these traits. 

Importantly, though my siblings and I are born in the L.A. area, both of my parents are immigrants from Ethiopia. My mom and her whole family moved to the United States in the early 1990s while my dad was the only one from his family to immigrate to the United States after being given an academic opportunity by his international school. While I am proud of both of my parents who overcome many barriers to become doctors, I’d like to leverage my interest in medicine to examine breakthroughs in the neurological field. Supporting a brother who is neurodivergent has shaped my desire and passion to support this population. As I’ve developed intellectually I also realize that there are cultural and racial differences in how people on the spectrum are both treated and perceived. 

I grew up in a household that spoke English and Amharic, with artifacts and paintings from Ethiopia, as well as foods like injera and baklava. I’ve always been very connected with Africa and Black culture, so my project aims to build meaningful connections between two things I am most passionate about. Unfortunately in many Black communities and particularly African immigrant families there is incredible stigma around seeking support for autism. I took my experiences and was inspired to support other children and families in my community and around the world through fundraising and spreading awareness.

In America, according to the CDC, ADDM reports have consistently noted that more white children are identified with ASD than Black or Hispanic children. A difference in identifying Black and Hispanic children with ASD relative to white children means these children may not be getting the services they need to reach their full potential. The Black Autism Network seeks to build community and provide resources to advocates who value the intersection of African culture and autism.