MEDIA ADVISORY
March 25, 2023
MARTA MARKS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE
MONTH WITH RAIL STATION ANNOUNCEMENTS FEATURING YOUNG PEOPLE WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
ATLANTA – The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
is proud to collaborate with the Autism Transit Project to feature rail station
announcements made by children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD). The announcements can be heard on the platforms at MARTA’s 38 rail stations
throughout the month of April to mark Autism Acceptance Month.
“Research has shown that those with ASD are drawn to trains
because of the sensory feedback they feel from the trains on the track and the
repetitive nature of their arrivals and departures,” said MARTA General Manager
and CEO Collie Greenwood. “We at
MARTA are delighted to be partnering with the Autism Transit Project to amplify the voices of
individuals with ASD on our platforms, fostering inclusivity and incorporating
neurodivergent perspectives into daily life.”
The
Autism Transit Project began in New York in 2020 and expanded last year as
young people recorded announcements here in Atlanta, and in San Francisco,
Washington D.C., and New Jersey. The initiative is led by Jonthan Trichter, the
founder of two schools on the East Coast for students with special needs. This
year, the project has expanded to transit systems in California, Maryland, and
Massachusetts.
MARTA’s
announcements this year include a reminder to not litter, to report suspicious
activity, and messages of escalator and elevator safety.
Also recently, MARTA participated in Neurodiversity Celebration Week by hosting a
lunch-and-learn led by Dr. David Jones, Chief Medical Officer at Anthem Blue
Cross Blue Shield of Georgia. MARTA continues to engage in dialogue to
understand neurodevelopmental disorders and learning disabilities, promoting
acceptance and inclusion in transit, schools, and workplaces, as a part of a
global initiative challenging stereotypes and promoting equality.
To
request an interview with one
of the announcers or to obtain recordings of the
announcements playing live, please contact media@itsmarta.com.