So, let's talk about Autism in Black's 5th Annual Conference and why this one is a little bit more special than the others… If you are a Black autistic individual, a parent, caregiver, or educator to one, or an ally looking to provide better support for Black autistic individuals, this episode—and conference—are FOR YOU. For so long, the Black autism community has struggled with access to resources, culturally responsive care, and finding safe spaces to learn and grow. Imagine having to fight every step of the way to ensure your child receives the support they need—the struggle is real and it leaves families feeling isolated and unheard. But that's exactly why we made sure that this year's conference will be more special than ever. From IEP advocacy to mental health and Black fatherhood, this conference will break barriers, empower families, build community, and push for actionable change. So, if you're ready to make that happen, join me and my wife, Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC, as we take action towards transforming the future for the Black autism community. 🔗 REGISTER NOW FOR THE 5TH ANNUAL AUTISM IN BLACK CONFERENCE (April 11-13, 2024): Why you need to check this episode: Discover the reason why Autism in Black was created, its evolution, and how the conference bridges gaps in autism advocacy for Black families; Have an overview of the conference's topics along with the uniqueness of speakers you don't want to miss; Understand why culturally responsive care is essential and how to advocate for it; Find out how the conference helps individuals, parents, educators, and professionals take action beyond the weekend; and Learn about the 5th Annual Autism in Black Conference's details (when and where it's happening this year). "Our conference is for any and everyone who wants to learn. If you are working with the Black autistic community, if you are a Black autistic individual yourself, if you're a parent to a Black autistic child, or if you are wanting to really know how to support the Black autistic community, this conference is for you...The resources that we do will always be centered on the Black autistic experience, but you don't have to Black to attend...[But] those who don't look like us, you really need to be in the building to know how to provide that intersectional care, that culturally responsive care." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC Notable Quotes: "Especially with this conference, a lot of times, it's about getting people out of their comfort zone or putting people in a comfort zone because they've been so used to not being comfortable." – Dr. Berry Pierre "Yes, we're there building community, but we know how that intersectionality of being Black with a disability is. And when we have to navigate society in a different way, we have to advocate in a different way. It's so important for us to teach actionable steps that you can start using immediately." – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC "You don't have to be Black to be able to take care of the Black community." – Dr. Berry Pierre Sign up at www.listentodrberry.com to join the mailing list. Remember to subscribe to the podcast and share the episode with a friend or family member. Listen on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, iHeartRadio, and Spotify Resources: 🔗 REGISTER NOW FOR THE 5TH ANNUAL AUTISM IN BLACK CONFERENCE (April 11-13, 2024) Connect with Maria Davis-Pierre and Autism in Black Inc. Maria's Website