Author Kuri Yasuno relates her journey as an immigrant and a mother of a child with autism, highlighting the parallels between both in a plea for inclusion.

When I came to America from Japan at the age of five, people thought sushi and the idea of eating raw fish was gross. Now, sushi is loved, accepted, and found everywhere.

My goal is to have autism become a part of society like sushi, fully integrated, sought out, and appreciated.

Maybe one day, autism can be just another descriptor, like hair color or eye color, or being right handed or left-handed. With one in 44 children being diagnosed as being on the spectrum, it is time to bring autism to the foreground.

Awareness is key in creating acceptance, but just as important is inclusion.

Being aware that a person is neurodivergent is not enough. Recognizing that there is a difference and choosing to walk towards them rather than away, is the kind of progress I am hoping for.

There is a difference between acceptance and inclusion. Inclusion is what brings us closer.

Inclusion is what bridges the gap. Inclusion is not just being in the same room or sharing space. Inclusion means shared conversations, thoughts, and ideas. This shared 'experience' starts to break down walls.