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[Congressional Bills 119th Congress] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] [H. Res. 752 Introduced in House (IH)]
119th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 752
Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2025, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day".
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IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
September 19, 2025
Mr. Lawler submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce
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RESOLUTION
Expressing support for the designation of September 19, 2025, as "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day".
Whereas autism is a form of neurodivergence characterized by differences in social communication skills and by repetitive and highly focused behaviors and ways of thinking; Whereas, despite recent efforts to serve Black autistic individuals, there appear to be significant racial inequities in the diagnosis and treatment of Black autistic children; Whereas Black parents of autistic children reported significantly less autism concerns and behavioral concerns, with children more likely to be seen as "disruptive" instead of neurodivergent; Whereas Black autistic individuals are more likely to be misdiagnosed, underdiagnosed, and diagnosed late; Whereas Black autistic individuals are underrepresented in autism research; Whereas Black autistic individuals have been found to have more difficulty in accessing specialty care; Whereas the Black community reports more accounts of marginalization and dismissal of concerns in health care settings, including in the autism space; Whereas Black autistic youth face increased risk of negative outcomes during interactions with law enforcement; and Whereas Black autistic youth face disproportionate discipline at school, resulting in a higher prevalence of suspensions, expulsions, and other classroom punishments: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives-- (1) expresses support for the designation of "Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day"; (2) encourages all Americans to celebrate Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day by-- (A) raising awareness about the inequalities facing Black autistic individuals; (B) promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of Black autistic individuals; (C) reinforcing the importance of amplifying the voices of Black autistic individuals; and (D) advocating for justice and equity for Black autistic individuals; (3) recognizes that acceptance for Black autistic individuals is essential; (4) recognizes that true acceptance for Black autistic individuals means culturally competent care, challenging existing biases, building community, and providing equitable access to resources and opportunities; (5) recognizes that autism does not end after childhood, and resources and acceptance are needed for Black autistic individuals into adulthood; and (6) recognizes that neurological differences, like autism, are natural variations in the human experience, and those variations should be celebrated.