The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions and beliefs of Ethiopian and Somali parents and caregivers as they attempted to make meaning of their child's autism. This study explored the research questions: 1. How do East African immigrant parents and primary caregivers make meaning of their child's disability? 2. How do East African immigrant parents and primary caregivers of a child with disabilities cope with their child's disability? 3. How do African immigrant parents and primary caregivers support and assist their children with disabilities? Utilizing an interpretive research method, the researcher conducted semistructured interviews with fifteen individuals from two Ethiopian and Somali American communities, all of whom had the shared experience of having a child with autism. The interpretive semi-structured interview research design was chosen because of the way the experience was defined and felt by the participants. In addition, multiple factors had to be considered, including the social, cultural and economic backgrounds of the participants. These individuals were people who emigrated to the U.S. not more than 20 years prior to the study. Purposeful sampling based on pre-identified selection criteria was used. The study focused on the participants' perceptions of what has precipitated through raising a child (or children) with autism. Data were collected through the semi-structured interviews and detailed field notes of observations made during the interviews. Data analysis consisted of coding responses and clustering relevant statements into themes and patterns. The overarching findings of the study were: (1) the surrounding community can help and hinder progress, (2) culturally competent practitioners can help, and (3) parents and caregivers are concerned for the future. Recommendations for practice and additional research are included following a discussion of the data. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]