Today we’d like to introduce you to Devan Southerland.
Hi Devan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am a natural information gatherer who believes deeply in sharing knowledge rather than gatekeeping it. After years of posting events, programs, and resources on my personal social media, it felt like a natural progression to create a dedicated space for that work. At the same time, I noticed a lack of spaces specifically centered on Black and Brown members of the Autism community.
From that realization, Brown on the Spectrum was born. What began as a simple effort to share information has grown into a space that connects the Autism community with meaningful resources and opportunities. Through social media updates, annual outreach events, and a monthly newsletter, the work continues to focus on getting vital information and support to the communities that need it most.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My professional path has been a natural progression of transitions and pivots, guided by a consistent commitment to equity and community-centered work. One of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered is navigating spaces that are committed—at least in principle—to creating inclusive environments, yet often limit opportunities for those of us dedicated to advancing that work.
For example, I once engaged with an organization that was experiencing significant service gaps and, as a result, faced considerable public backlash. After meeting with their leadership, I proposed program support services that could help address those gaps. The organization ultimately declined, and to this day the service gaps remain.
Experiences like this have been both frustrating and instructive. It can be confusing to hear how “important” this work is while also encountering reluctance to invest in the people doing it. Despite these challenges, these moments have reinforced my commitment to building systems and programs that not only value equity in theory but support it in practice.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Brown on the Spectrum?
Brown on the Spectrum provides information and resources to the Autism community, with a focus on ensuring that Black and Brown families have access to the support they need. Through social media updates, monthly newsletters, and community resource fairs, our goal is to get vital information into the hands of the communities that need it most.
We also provide strategies and guidance focused on education and training to help organizations create truly inclusive spaces. At our core, we believe in creating the spaces we want to see. Since 2015, we are most proud of being a trusted and consistent presence within the community.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I always loved being wherever the information was. I’ve been a fan of the library since elementary school, and over the years I’ve built a pretty sizable personal book collection. I’ve never been the kind of person who stays within boxes—I’ve always prided myself on asking, “Why not?”
I started journaling around age ten and spent some time experimenting with writing short stories. Volunteering also became a core part of my upbringing, especially supporting organizations that made our neighborhoods stronger and that you wanted to see stick around.
Outside of that, you could usually find me hanging out at the CD store Soundgarden or at the skate shop Kelley’s Board Shop in Fells Point—back when Fells Point was still cool, with just a little bit of grit left in it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/brownonthespectrum?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=5678bacb-d0d9-4cb0-94c6-f3db3437cff0
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brownonthespectrum/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brwnonthespctrm
