These two studies posted here demonstrates that there is a 3 year lag in between the time that African American parents express developmental concerns and the time that Pediatricians actually refer to specialists and the other study, well the title speaks for itself. However, Autism Urban Connections, Inc. has been working to end this statistic for over five years by providing support and resources in our most marginalized communities. But now is the time that we REALLY NEED YOU! So, we are challenging you to take an ACTIONABLE STEP by STANDING UP for the “LISTEN UP, CLOSE THE GAP” Campaign, by actually assisting the parent in the referral process, and you can also making a monetary pledge and you will become a part of a wider network who stands with you.  Your pledge will allow for families to continue to get the support services needed, even up to financial assistance with testing. This will show your full support for early testing and an earlier Autism diagnosis  in the African American and Minority Communities Campaign! Your impact can go further with sharing with your colleagues your support for “LISTEN UP CLOSE THE GAP to express the importance of of earlier diagnosis in the African American communities to get “OUR CHILDREN” the same services that everyone on the Autism Spectrum Disorder ethically, and equally deserve.