NYS landmarks illuminate in honor of neurodiversity strength movement led by self-advocates

NYS Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board press release

This April marks the beginning of Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Month with a powerful, community-driven initiative led by self-advocates across New York. In a historic and deeply meaningful show of visibility, iconic landmarks – including Niagara Falls – will be illuminated in the colors of the neurodiversity strength flag on April 2.

The Neurodiversity strength flag, created by autistic self-advocate Josh Mirsky, represents a shift away from outdated narratives of awareness and toward authentic acceptance, dignity and empowerment for neurodivergent individuals. This movement has been led by autistic self-advocates, ensuring the voices of those most impacted are centered.

The month’s events began with the raising of the neurodiversity strength flag at Jones Beach April 1, symbolizing the start of a statewide commitment to honoring neurodivergent people – not just in April, but year-round.

On April 2, the colors of the flag will shine across New York at the following locations:

• 1 World Trade Center
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• Kosciuszko Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
• Moynihan Train Hall
• Roosevelt Island Lighthouse

These coordinated lightings represent a unified message: Neurodivergent people belong, their experiences matter, and their voices must lead.

Local advocate, educator, and systems-change leader Kate Coffman played a significant role in bringing visibility to this initiative through sustained advocacy, community organizing, and collaboration with self-advocates and leaders across the state.

“This is about more than lighting buildings,” Coffman said. “This is about a shift in power – where autistic individuals and neurodivergent people are no longer spoken for, but are leading the conversation themselves.”

Community members are encouraged to visit these locations, take photos, and share them to amplify the message of acceptance, strength, and systemic change.