🧠 Autism Is in Our Community—Let’s Build for Every Child

In Kinston, we talk a lot about youth. We talk about crime, education, and opportunity. But too often, we leave out a vital part of our youth population: children with autism.

Let’s keep it 100—autistic kids live here, learn here, and grow here. They are part of our community, and they deserve to be seen, supported, and included in every plan we make for the future.

📊 The Numbers Speak Loud

According to recent data, 1 in 39 children in North Carolina is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a number that’s been rising steadily over the past two decades. Nationally, the rate is even higher—1 in 31 children. These aren’t just statistics. These are real kids in our neighborhoods, our schools, our churches, and our homes.

And yet, in Kinston, where are the sensory-friendly parks? Where are the library programs for neurodiverse learners? Where are the recreation centers with inclusive activities?

🏞️ What City Officials Can—and Must—Do

If we’re serious about equity, then our city must invest in spaces and services that support all children, including those with autism and other developmental differences. That means:

• Creating sensory-friendly zones in public parks with quiet areas, textured play surfaces, and calming visuals

• Expanding library programming to include story times and learning tools designed for neurodiverse kids

• Training Parks & Rec staff in autism awareness and inclusive engagement

• Partnering with local therapists and educators to design programs that meet real needs

• Offering parent support groups and resource hubs at community centers

  

hese aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities. Because when we build for every child, we build a stronger Kinston.

💬 A Message to Parents

If you’re raising a child with autism in Kinston, you are not alone. Your voice matters. Your child matters. And this city should reflect that in every playground, every program, and every policy.

✊ My Commitment

Whether I, Quarla Blackwell, take the seat or not—I am committed to making Kinston strong again, one person, one project at a time. That includes our autistic youth. That includes their families. That includes you.