DO-IT Ambassador Naomi Advocates with Kirkland Mayor

On April 7, DO-IT Ambassador Naomi Marteeny delivered a presentation at the City of Kirkland Council meeting to help celebrate the unique talents, skills, and contributions of neurodivergent people.  

Kirkland’s mayor, Kelli Curtis, began the meeting by reading a proclamation that designated April as “Autism and Other Neurodivergence Acceptance and Appreciation Month.” The proclamation encouraged community members to promote acceptance and appreciation of those who identify as autistic or neurodivergent, because they’re making valuable contributions to the community as family members, friends, classmates, co-workers, and neighbors.

Mayor Curits then handed the proclamation to Naomi, who delivered a powerful speech on inclusion. Within the speech, she shared “We can embrace neurodivergence by understanding how people are protected by laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. We can listen carefully to the concerns of those who identify as neurodivergent and help elevate their voices.”

We’re proud of Naomi, 2016 DO-IT Scholar, for her advocacy work and we hold unwavering belief that, as the proclamation states, “neurodivergent people need to be treated with love, dignity, respect, and provided accommodations that lead to equal opportunities to thrive.”