by Lee Pierre
As a child, Guy Isaiah Smith did what most children did growing up. He played outside, liked video games, and took a special interest in superhero cartoons. As a boy, he was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. He said his life changed. Asperger’s syndrome is no longer a medical diagnosis, but it is a term that some people use to describe their identity on the autism spectrum. The change was such that he decided to become a “superhero.”
“My definition of a superhero is not just someone who wears a costume or yells out ‘It’s Morphin Time’ or ‘Titans Go!’ Being a superhero really means being a servant and helping others,” Smith said. “It is something that you have to earn.”
Smith is committed to his self-proclaimed superhero title, “Autism Awareness Ambassador,” because he is dedicated to bringing autism to the forefront through lectures and special events. At an event held in 2017 at Radford University, while he was a student there, more than 400 people attended. He has traveled to other cities, lecturing and telling his story of living with autism.
“Autism does not define who we are, it is just a part of what makes us special,” Smith said.
Autism Awareness Month is observed every April to promote understanding and acceptance of autism. World Autism Awareness Day is internationally recognized annually on April 2. It encourages the 193 member states in the United Nations (UN) to take measures to raise awareness about autistic individuals throughout the world.
According to the Autism Speaks website: Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. And the Centers for Disease Control reports autism affects an estimated 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today.
An “Autism Acceptance Month Festival,” sponsored by T. G. Howard Community Center, was held on April 11 at the Melrose Plaza. Smith helped organize the free event that included entertainment, related resources, a panel discussion, and support for the parents/families/community to better understand autism.
Morgan Janay, an Atlanta native, performed at the festival. She was diagnosed with autism at age 3. Music became her way of expressing herself and overcoming challenges. Janay began taking piano lessons when she was 8. Her passion for music grew stronger, and she worked hard to develop her skills.
“I am a vocal advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. I use my platform to shine a light on the challenges faced by those with neurodiverse conditions. I want my story to serve as an inspiration to countless individuals. Proving that with passion, perseverance, and a touch of creativity, anything is possible,” Janay said.
Ashley Drayton was the guest speaker at the festival. Drayton is the chief visionary officer and president of House of Artists Foundation in Atlanta. In 2016, Drayton, who is also an actress and a philanthropist, founded the House of Artists Foundation. She grew up attending and working at summer camps in South Carolina. As camp instructor, she took special interest in facilitating programs for the campers who in school were assigned to the ‘special needs’ classes.
“I created activities and games where they could have fun while learning. Giving them confidence and support,” she said.
After a few summers, the camp changed its policy and stated that all campers had to be in the same program. That experience motivated her to establish the foundation.
“This foundation is a nonprofit that supports autistic youth and adults centered around vocational training focusing on creative arts careers, independent living trade and life skills, so we start age 12 and go all the way through adulthood there’s no age cap,” Drayton said.
The summer program camp has 12 participants at each of the five locations hosted by the foundation.
“This year the programs will be in Orlando, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Houston. Our board decides what cities we’re going to go to, and Roanoke is a hopeful city. Guy (Isaiah Smith) has been on the board for two years and that is very vital to us is that on our executive board we have autistic adults sharing their daily experience, giving us their community feedback on what’s needed, what they feel like is already saturated in the market from a resource standpoint,” Drayton added.
As am Employment Specialist at VIA, Anna Robertson, “finds out what type of work her clients might be able to do.”
She helps them write a resume; practice interviews; and aids them in completing an application. Once the job is obtained VIA continues supporting the client to maintain the job and visits the job site assuring that the work environment is supportive.
A local resident, Miz Lexima, concerned about the family, asked, “Is emotional support, resources, and coping skills for caregivers, parents, and extended family provided?
Lexi Martin and Kaiya Martin (no relations) of Compass Virginia said their job involves an extended process working directly with the family to understand the goals for the individual.
“We spend time in the home developing a good relationship and establish goals for the child.
Also work on training the parents on how to run things making sure to collaborate with what the family needs and feel is important for their child,” said Lexi Martin.
Roanoke native Kevin Ford said he was glad to see so many people out supporting the children. City Council candidate Raekwon Moore made an appearance showing support for the autism community resources. He, too, was impressed by the turnout.
Several organizations came out to support the festival by providing literature, gifts and activities: Virginia Tech Center for Autism, Compass Virginia, Crescent Counseling Group,
Boundless ABA of Roanoke, VIA Center, Connect Behavioral Health, and Master Alliance. Boundless ABA provided a “relaxation booth” for anyone who may have become overstimulated from the crowd and/or noise.
Those who are unfamiliar with autism may wonder why do people with autism need acceptance? Here’s a list to help explain why.
- Boosts Self Esteem and Confidence: Acceptance helps autistic individuals and their families embrace their uniqueness. This builds self-confidence and breaks harmful stereotypes.
- Encourages Diversity and Inclusion: A more inclusive society whether in schools, workplaces, or communities – creates a supportive environment for everyone.
- Improves Mental Well Being: Feeling understood and accepted reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to better mental health. Acceptance also helps prevent autistic burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion that can occur when autistic individuals face prolonged stress, sensory overload, or the pressure to mask their true selves. Promoting understanding and supportive environments can greatly reduce the risk of burnout and improve overall quality of life.
- Creates Meaningful Change: When we accept autism, we challenge stigma and promote a world that values different perspectives.
An Instagram sensation, Guy Isaiah Smith, is passionate about getting the true message regarding autism out. (Smith’s Instagram: #theamazingblackpuzzle) When asked if he had plans to host another festival next year, he stroked his chin, gave a sly smile, and said, “You’ll just have to wait to see.”
