by Kristine Nellenbach, MS
When people imagine what it means to be autistic or what it means to be Asian American, their ideas can too often be shaped by limited media portrayals or surface-level exposure to those communities. Those portrayals tend to emphasize stereotypes and generalizations, leaving little room for the full range of real, lived experiences, especially for those who hold both identities.
Across Asian American communities, many individuals are familiar with receiving questions like, “Where are you really from?” or compliments on their English. However well-meaning, these comments reinforce the idea that they are outsiders. Rather than being seen as individuals, they are viewed through a filter of assumptions.
The same kind of misunderstanding often surrounds autism. Public understanding of autism remains narrow, often shaped by outdated portrayals. When someone communicates clearly, maintains a job, or appears outwardly “high functioning,” others may question their diagnosis. This kind of skepticism erases the diversity of neurodivergent experiences, especially for those who may not match common stereotypes.
For people who are both autistic and Asian American, the misunderstandings often compound. Cultural expectations around composure, academic success, and fitting in may obscure or conflict with how autism can be presented. Sensory sensitivities, communication differences, or emotional needs may be misunderstood, dismissed, or misattributed to culture or personality. Many people with these identities may feel pressure to mask to avoid judgment and maintain a sense of belonging.
These experiences are not always easy to talk about, and they are not always visible from the outside. It is important to honor the stories that don’t always fit neatly into mainstream narratives. By listening without assumptions, we create space for people to show up fully. When curiosity is paired with care, we move closer to communities where no one has to explain why they belong.
For those navigating overlapping parts of themselves, whether cultural, neurological, or otherwise, it is helpful to know they are not alone. Their experiences are valid even when they are hard to describe. Their perspectives matter even when they challenge expectations.
