Advocating for Autism Equity and Inclusion
Understanding Autism. Empowering Communities
Boston Coalition Autism (BCA)
The Boston Coalition for Autism is built upon four core pillars that guide all our initiatives and advocacy.
LATE DIAGNOSIS emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting autistic individuals who receive their diagnosis in adolescence or adulthood, often after years of misunderstanding or misidentification.
DIAGNOSIS in FEMALES addresses the unique presentation of autism in girls and women, whose traits are frequently overlooked due to gender biases in traditional diagnostic criteria.
ADDICTION & AUTISM explores the complex intersection between neurodiversity and substance use, highlighting the need for tailored interventions and compassionate support systems.
IMMIGRATION & AUTISM focuses on the experiences of immigrant autistic individuals and families, ensuring cultural and linguistic inclusivity in access to diagnosis, education, and services.
Together, these four pillars reflect BCA’s commitment to equity, understanding, and empowerment within the diverse landscape of the autism spectrum.
Empowering the Autism Community
LATE DIAGNOSIS
BCA recognizes that many autistic individuals are identified later in life, often after years of misunderstanding and misdiagnosis. This pillar promotes awareness, accurate assessment, and community support for those receiving a late diagnosis, helping them understand their neurodivergent identity and fostering acceptance, healing, and empowerment.
FEMALE AUTISM
BCA advocates for greater awareness of how autism presents in girls and women, whose traits are often overlooked or misinterpreted. This pillar focuses on promoting research, education, and diagnostic practices that recognize the female experience of autism, ensuring earlier identification, proper support, and the celebration of diverse expressions of neurodiversity.
ADDICTION & AUTISM
BCA addresses the often-hidden connection between autism and addiction. Many autistic individuals turn to substances as a way to cope with sensory overload, social isolation, or emotional pain. This pillar promotes understanding, prevention, and access to neurodiversity-informed recovery supports that respect the unique needs and experiences of autistic people on their path to healing and self-acceptance.
Immigration and Autism
The Boston Coalition for Autism is dedicated to supporting immigrant autistic individuals and their families who often face cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers to diagnosis and services. This pillar promotes equity, cultural awareness, and inclusion by ensuring that every immigrant—regardless of language or background—has access to understanding, support, and opportunities within a neurodiverse community.
Empowering Autism Families & Individuals
Join our mission to support individuals with autism through resources, advocacy, and community engagement. Together, we can make a difference.