A Call for Reparations: Closing the Divide in ABA Therapy

In a modest clinic tucked away in a neighborhood with a large Black and Brown population, there is a deeply compassionate therapist and behavior analyst, and owner of an ABA and Mental Health therapy practice. Let's call her Dranisha.

When Dranisha set out to open her practice, she carried the knowledge of the systemic racism that pervades the healthcare system. She understood the uphill battle that Black and Brown families faced in accessing ABA and Mental Health therapy. Yet, armed with passion and a deep sense of purpose, she persisted. She believed that even within a historically racist system, she had the determination and grit needed to make a meaningful impact on the lives of historically marginalized children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. The barriers were daunting, but they only strengthened her resolve to overcome them and create a space where every child could thrive.

In the heart of a vibrant neighborhood, Dranisha opened her clinic—a sanctuary for growth, change, and dare we say, healing. It became a beacon of hope, offering a safe space for marginalized children to receive comprehensive therapy services tailored to their unique needs. Through her practice, she sought to address the disparities that plagued her community, stemming from years of neglect and systemic racism.

Witnessing the transformative power of ABA therapy for Black and Brown Autistic children, hope remains within Dranisha. Yet, she cannot ignore the true reality: ABA therapy from clinicians who represent the community remains inaccessible to many Black families due to systemic inequalities. The lack of support and resources for this gem of an organization continues to hinder her ability to fully reach those who need care the most.

Reparations for Black ABA practice owners would bridge the wealth gap, enabling vital support for Black families with Autistic children. They would be a step toward justice and rectification of historical harm.

There are ways we can take action for Dranisha and other Black ABA practice owners. We can:

1️⃣ Support Rep. Cori Bush's bill on reparations for Black Americans, advocating for $14 trillion in compensation for the enduring impacts of slavery and the Jim Crow era.

2️⃣ Advocate for a federal reparations package, designed to bridge the racial wealth gap.

3️⃣ Engage with elected officials, urging them to support reparations for Black Americans.

4️⃣ Amplify Black ABA therapy practice owners by showcasing their businesses on social media, referring clients to their care, and advocating for their needs.

5️⃣ Lastly, call upon billion and multi-million dollar ABA companies to step up financially and through resource sharing for Black-owned practices. These companies have the financial means and resources to sponsor and support Black practices.

Together, through collective action and unwavering support, we can empower Black ABA practice owners like Dranisha, ensuring that they have the means to provide accessible and culturally competent therapy to the communities they serve.