Black History Month is a time to celebrate the remarkable contributions and voices of Black individuals throughout history. Yet, who are the Black individuals whose contributions are often excluded and voices unheard? Overlooking the contributions of neurodiverse individuals is characteristic of a neurotypical society, and overlooking the contributions of Black neurodiverse figures is evidence of compound disadvantage; race and neurodiverse status amalgamate to create a unique form of marginalisation.
As a Black neurodiverse student myself, I understand the empowerment of seeing your identity reflected in history and celebrated. Therefore, this piece is a direct act of protest against the historical silencing and erasure of Black neurodivergent voices, affirming their place in the narrative for future generations.
Neurodiversity can be defined as a difference in how the brain processes and experiences the world, encompassing conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition, ADHD and Tourette Syndrome. The challenges and mental labour of a neurodiverse individual navigating a neurotypical society are profound and constant. However, the hardships of navigating a world not built for you can also breed innovation. The neurodiverse experience itself rejects the rigid structures of modern society, serving as a testament to an alternative paradigm. Similarly, the communal embrace of Blackness has long served as a defiant act against systemic oppression, a powerful parallel to the neurodivergent mind that deconstructs its mask and celebrates authenticity.
Recognising neurodiversity historically involves understanding the white-normative standards embedded within diagnostic processes. With conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition, key autistic traits exhibited by Black children may be perceived as bad behaviour, and the remedy is increased discipline. Interestingly, the historical and current epistemological violence against autistic individuals and against Black people both utilise the same tactic of de-centring individual experience and dehumanisation – a peculiar oversight by the hegemonic social group in its efforts to marginalise, bypassing the opportunity to pathologise Black people through a neurodevelopmental lens. This highlights how retrospective diagnostic speculation is vital for understanding potential neurodiverse Black historical figures; however, it should be approached with caution and nuanced consideration.
A notable Black neurodiverse figure in history who merits recognition is Thomas Wiggins. Thomas Wiggins, a Black American pianist born into slavery in 1849, was believed to have autism and was famous for incorporating imitations of bird calls and other sounds of nature into his music, which could now be understood as echolalia. His emotive compositions reflected the musical style of the nineteenth century, making him one of the most sought-after musicians of his era, as evidenced by his invitation to perform at the White House by President James Buchanan. Unfortunately, Wiggins’ delayed emotional development made him vulnerable to exploitation, and his musical income was used to support the Confederate cause.
Wiggins’ story is not solely a tragedy depicting the exploitation of an autistic Black artist, but can be reclaimed as a source of strength. His talent and his dehumanisation are testaments to the resilience of the neurodiverse Black mind. Through the celebration of Wiggins, we are not solely celebrating a historical figure but also validating his neurodiverse identity. Reclaiming his story means honouring his art as a powerful example of creative defiance in a system that profited from his creative exploitation.
Black History Month is more than a celebration; it’s a period of reflection and exploration. Every story of a Black historical figure is a call to action – a guiding compass for understanding our past to help shape our future. Through Wiggins’ story, we affirm the neurodiverse Black identity, honour the multifaceted nature of Blackness, and validate the Black identity as a non-monolith.