Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – 9/19/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced a resolution designating September 19, 2025, as Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day. The resolution highlights the persistent racial disparities in autism diagnosis and treatment. It calls on Americans to promote awareness, acceptance, and equity for Black autistic individuals.

“This resolution is the direct result of one of my brave constituents’ advocacy, and I am proud to bring their voice to Capitol Hill. By designating September 19th as Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day, we’re acknowledging those inequities and committing ourselves to do better. This is about making sure every person, no matter their race or neurological differences, is seen, heard, and respected,” said Congressman Lawler. 

Ayanna Sanaa Davis, who goes by Phenomenally Autistic on social media and inspired the resolution said:

“I want to extend my gratitude to Congressman Mike Lawler and his incredible staff for listening, for caring, and for acting. When we talk about autism in this country, Black stories are rarely at the center. And when we talk about racial justice, neurodivergence is often left out of the conversation. 

This bill changes that. It creates a day for us to stand in our truth, to celebrate our Black autistic pride, and to be recognized in our full humanity.

I've lived at the crossroads of being misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and mistreated in schools, in healthcare systems, in public spaces. I've been seen as ‘too much’ or ‘not enough,’ judged by standards that were never meant for someone like me. And I know I'm not alone. To be Black and autistic is to carry a heavy duality. But today, I carry it with pride, knowing that progress is possible and that we are making it.”

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

###

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.