July 21, 2025

Charleston Hosts Autism Awareness and Advocacy Event

News Summary

An autism awareness and advocacy event was held at the Charleston Public Library, organized by Just Bee, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with autism. Attendees learned about autism’s increasing prevalence and initiatives like Rio’s Bill, which promotes autism-friendly vehicles. Just Bee founder Layla Luna, inspired by her experiences with her son, highlights the need for community understanding and safety measures. Legislative efforts are also underway to improve training for first responders in understanding autism. The event emphasizes kindness and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals in South Carolina.

Charleston, South Carolina – Dozens attended an autism awareness and advocacy event on Sunday at the Charleston Public Library, organized by Just Bee, a nonprofit committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for autistic and neurodivergent individuals. The gathering was part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about autism, which is swiftly becoming a pressing issue in South Carolina due to its steadily increasing prevalence.

Just Bee was founded by Layla Luna after her own experiences with her autistic son, Rio, demonstrated the urgent need for support and understanding in public settings. After an incident in which Rio faced sensory overload in a restaurant, leading to the family being asked to leave, Luna was inspired to create an organization that embodies kindness and community support. Her reflections during a moment of distress, while using her daughter’s bee blanket, led her to question, “Why can’t people just ‘bee nice?’” Luna’s vision is a world where her son can thrive—achieving his dreams, forging friendships, and enjoying a fulfilling future.

Attendees of the awareness event were educated on autism, its impact, and the various initiatives conducted by Just Bee. Among these efforts is the recent passage of Rio’s Bill in the South Carolina legislature, allowing residents with autism to apply for specialty vehicle license plates. This plate alerts first responders to disable sirens and lights when approaching the vehicle, providing a more serene environment for individuals with neurodivergent profiles.

Charles Hammond, a prominent member of the Secular Humanists of the Lowcountry, played a key role in organizing the event to promote a deeper understanding of neurodivergent individuals and their needs. Along with Luna, he highlighted the vital role of community engagement and awareness in fostering acceptance.

As health officials report a stark rise in autism prevalence in the U.S.—from 1 in 50 children in 2000 to 1 in 36 by 2020—there are over 72,000 individuals in South Carolina diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. In light of this growing concern, the South Carolina Palmetto Autism Study Committee Report has recommended enhancing training for school-based counselors focused on autism spectrum disorders.

One notable initiative by Just Bee, the “Just Bee My Friend” school program, aims to teach kindness and promote inclusive behavior towards autistic and neurodivergent children, further demonstrating the organization’s commitment to building supportive environments. Furthermore, the development of the Just Bee app assists neurodivergent individuals in locating and recommending autism-friendly venues and businesses.

In an effort to expand support systems, Layla Luna envisions implementing vending machines filled with sensory items and establishing sensory rooms at airports. She also advocates for creating a first responder database dedicated to neurodivergent individuals to ensure safety and appropriate responses in various situations.

In the legislative arena, a bipartisan group of South Carolina lawmakers is advocating for further training around autism education, focusing on first responders. A bill has been introduced to mandate neurodiversity training for essential services, including police, firefighters, and EMS personnel. Led by Rep. Kathy Landing, the proposed legislation aims to improve public safety measures for neurodivergent individuals by providing officers with crucial de-escalation techniques and insights into the unique needs of those on the spectrum. This bill has already passed unanimously through the State House Judiciary Committee and awaits discussion on the House floor.

On a community level, Geoff Weber, founder of Heirloom Cloud Corporation in Mount Pleasant, is a strong proponent of hiring neurodiverse individuals. He believes that autism can be an asset within the workforce and emphasizes the importance of creating job opportunities that leverage the unique strengths of employees with autism. Currently, several of Heirloom’s staff members are on the spectrum, contributing to various tasks like digitizing media and helping to shift public perception of autism in the workplace.

Through events like the one at the Charleston Public Library and ongoing legislative efforts, the conversation surrounding autism and neurodiversity is becoming increasingly prominent in South Carolina, paving the way for more inclusive communities and enhanced understanding among all citizens.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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