Abstract
This phenomenological research project explored the experiences of Somali parents ofchildren diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and how these parents navigated the special education system. Autism affects Somali immigrants disproportionately (Minnesota Department of Health, 2009). Recent research indicates that children of Somali descent have higher occurrences of autism diagnoses compared to the general population (Barnevik-Olsson, Gillberg, & Fernell, 2008, Bennet, 2012, Hewitt et al., 2016, Hall-Lande et al., 2018, Koegel et al., 2014, Munroe et al., 2016). Findings of this research indicated the following themes: social stigma, lack of awareness about autism, late diagnosis, lack of trust, grief and loss, shock of disability label, and lack of knowledge about special education. Additionally, findings also indicated differences of cultural perceptions of disability and child development, as well as access to early intervention services. Recommendations for future research include studies of disabilities and mental health through a cultural lens.