Using Neurodiversity‐Affirming Intersectional Approaches to Build More Equitable Societies and Shape Public Policy in Liberia and Sierra Leone

Abstract

This paper discusses the consequences of cultural misunderstandings, institutional and structural obstacles, and ableism on non‐speaking autistic people and their families in post‐conflict Liberia and Sierra Leone, based on the global neurodiversity literature and gaps in diagnosis, support, and inclusion in the West African context. The research question will focus on whether intersectional neurodiversity perspectives can improve public policy for diverse people. The objectives will be (1) to assess social, educational, and family concerns; (2) to analyze cultural stigma and beliefs; (3) to test neurodiversity‐inclusive interventions. The study utilized a thematic analysis‐based qualitative and feminist multimodal design to purposely select 30 participants (10 non‐speaking autistics aged 5–18, 10 parents, 10 caregivers) living in urban (60%) and non‐urban (40%) areas in both countries, using interviews, focus groups, arts‐based approaches, and observations as methods over the 8 months. Results revealed 90% attributing autism to supernatural causes, only 1/30 of the participants were formally diagnosed, 80% female caregivers facing isolation and financial strain, and less than 20% primary school completion due to inadequate resources. The results point to systemic injustice, and the implications include culturally responsive policies that incorporate traditional healers, diagnostic expansion (which may increase the rate of diagnostics by 50%), and equitable caregiving practices to build more equitable societies.