Our Story

Maangaar Voices was officially founded in 2024, building upon nearly two decades of grassroots advocacy and activism for the immigrant disability community. In 2020, Dr. Hussein Awjama, a board member of Maangaar Voices, coined the term ‘Maangaar,’ meaning ‘Unique Mind,’ after extensive discussions with a collective of parents, professionals, and self-advocates. This term was created to replace harmful and stigmatizing language, offering a positive, asset-based view of autism that emphasizes strengths and individuality. Our focus includes autism and related disabilities, such as neurodevelopmental conditions, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, deafness, blindness, ADHD, and more. Rooted in the belief that every story deserves to be heard, Maangaar Voices provides culturally relevant resources and amplifies the voices of immigrant individuals with disabilities and their families, fostering an inclusive environment and a deeper understanding within our community.