Embracing Diversity in Neurodiversity

Honoring African Americans with Dyslexia and other neurodiversity this Black Heritage Month.

Black Heritage Month (also known as Black History Month), is a time dedicated to honoring the countless contributions made by African Americans throughout the history of the United States. From slaves brought here in the early 17th century, to the African American trailblazers of today, we celebrate the resilience and determination of a community that has faced and overcome numerous obstacles.

In recent years, there has been a growing focus on neurodiversity, which recognizes the unique strengths and capabilities of individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions such as Dyslexia. It is crucial to shift the perspective on Dyslexia to become more inclusive and reflective of the diverse Dyslexic community, particularly within historically oppression in American communities of color. Despite the numerous examples of  Dyslexic African Americans succeeding in various industries,  their stories are not heard very often.
The intersection of race or ethnicity and neurodiversity can lead to many challenges and discrimination. Despite increasing discussions, the topic of racism and neurodiversity is still underrepresented and this lack of attention given to the issue only makes things harder for Dyslexic African Americans. Many face missed or delayed diagnoses due to unequal access to resources, cultural and linguistic differences, and implicit bias. Some individuals feel isolated and unsupported, leading to them suffering in silence. Dr. Jannett Morgan, Associate Program Director for the Diversifying Leadership Program, recalled “I did not receive assistance until I was in college because I did not want to be further identified and labeled as Dyslexic on top of the label of Black, of being a woman and from a Nigerian background. I decided to stay silent for as long as I could.” She further expressed this feeling through a poem entitled Neurodiversity, Race and Culture with Jannett Morgan on Diverse Minds where she said, “When so many things can hold you back, for nothing more for being Black / Who would want another label that says you are not able.” [4]
In order to create a more inclusive and supportive society, we need to continue acknowledging and addressing these intersecting identities. It is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements of African Americans with Dyslexia, who have proven time and time again that color and neurodevelopmental condition do not define one's potential for success.

Check out some successful African Americans with Dyslexia whose stories are an inspiration:

1. Whoopi Goldberg was diagnosed with Dyslexia later in life and faced challenges in school where she was labeled as slow and dumb. Despite the negative feedback, she had her mother's unwavering support, who encouraged her to pursue her dreams and recognize her potential. Goldberg, who has now won several awards including Oscars, Tonys, Grammys, and Emmys, recalls her mother telling her "I knew I wasn't stupid, and I knew I wasn't dumb." in an interview with Ebony magazine.
2. Daymond John is known as one of the five successful business executives on the popular TV show "Shark Tank". His success started with the launch of his clothing line FUBU, which has earned him recognition like Ernst & Young's New York Entrepreneur of the Year and Crain's Business of New York Under Forty Award. Despite his struggles with Dyslexia, John didn't let it hold him back. He leveraged his strengths in creative and analytical thinking to achieve success.
3. Magic Johnson, a basketball legend, faced difficulties throughout his life, including Dyslexia. Despite being laughed at and ridiculed for his condition, he only let it fuel him further. At one point, Johnson struggled with reading and was only at a 6th-grade level. Nevertheless, he emphasizes that the power to overcome such challenges lies solely with the individual, stating, "You're the only one who can make the difference."
4. ​Octavia Spencer, known for her Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning acting, has also published books for children. Having Dyslexia herself, she understands the struggles with reading that some children face. Spencer recalls being afraid of reading aloud in class due to her Dyslexia but emphasizes that it should not hold children back from their aspirations. According to her, Dyslexia doesn't indicate a lack of intelligence, but rather a unique way the brain functions.

Let us recognize their success and resilience as their stories bring hope and encouragement to both the Dyslexia and people of color and serve as living proof that success is attainable for anyone, despite any challenges that may arise. These individuals have overcome obstacles and pursued their dreams, demonstrating that Dyslexia and Ethnicity should not be barriers to achievement. As we continue to honor the African Americans for their strength and contributions, let us also celebrate and support those who have faced Dyslexia and emerged victorious.

Source:
​[1] Black History Month (nationalgeographic.com)
[2] Black History Month: What is it and why do we need it? | World Economic Forum (weforum.org)
[3] Celebrities With Dyslexia, ADHD, and Dyscalculia | Understood
[4] Dyslexia and me: the Intersections of Dyslexia and Race.