Understanding Others Through Inclusion

Red Fryk Hey: Dancing Through Autism, Shaping a More Inclusive Future

imagine a world where differences aren’t just tolerated, but celebrated.Where neurodiversity is understood, and individuals are empowered to thrive on their own terms. This is the vision that Red Fryk Hey, a dancer, choreographer, and advocate, is bringing to life.

From Safe Space to Center Stage: The Power of Dance

For Red Fryk Hey, dance has always been more than just movement; it’s been a lifeline. A “safe space,” a language to express herself when words failed. Now,it’s her profession,a platform to share her experiences as a young woman who discovered she was autistic later in life.

Red isn’t just dancing; she’s telling a story. A story of self-revelation, acceptance, and the urgent need for true inclusion. Through her dance film, ‘The Mind with Red Wings,’ her comic book, and her nationwide tour of shows and panel discussions, she’s sparking conversations and challenging perceptions about autism.

Did you know? According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

ADUFEST 2025: A Call for Balance and Understanding

Red Fryk Hey is slated to speak at ADUFEST 2025, an event dedicated to fostering dialog among children, families, educators, and professionals.The theme? “Balances.” The goal? To reimagine education as an open space where questions are valued as much as answers, and differences are recognized as resources.

This event, held at villa Ghirlanda in cinisello Balsamo, Italy, on May 18th, 2025, serves as a crucial platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities surrounding the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. But the message resonates far beyond Italy, touching on universal themes of acceptance and understanding that are particularly relevant in the united States, where discussions around neurodiversity are gaining momentum.

The Rediscovery of Self: A late Diagnosis

“I discovered that I was autistic at 31,” Red shares.”It was a rediscovery of myself. I understood many things about me, I finally got some answers, and it was a positive life change.” This late diagnosis is not uncommon, particularly for women, who may present with different autistic traits than men, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses.

Red’s experience highlights a critical issue: the need for greater awareness and understanding of autism across the lifespan. Many adults remain undiagnosed, struggling with anxiety, depression, and othre mental health challenges without understanding the root cause. A diagnosis can be a turning point, providing access to support, resources, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

Expert Tip: If you suspect you or someone you know might be on the autism spectrum, seek out a qualified professional for an evaluation. Resources like the Autism Society of America and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) can provide valuable information and support.

From Personal Struggle to Public Advocacy

Red’s diagnosis wasn’t just a personal revelation; it was a call to action. “I immediately decided to make information and activism my mission,” she explains. “I am an autistic person who speaks – not all of them speak – and I’m trying to make some things better understood that I live. It was a push that I heard inside, especially for those who don’t know they are on the autistic spectrum.”

Her advocacy is particularly crucial for those who may be unaware of their own neurodivergence. Red emphasizes that many individuals experience depression and anxiety disorders as they don’t understand how their minds work. Awareness, she believes, is the key to well-being, not just for individuals but also for their families.

Redefining Inclusion: Beyond Participation, Towards Understanding

Red’s journey began with feeling “wrong” in a world that didn’t understand her. “I felt wrong because I didn’t work like the others,” she recalls. “My brain didn’t perceive reality well, I felt emotions and I had always to strong reactions, and thus I also came to the dissociation, between judgment and shame of what it feels like.”

Her experiences underscore the importance of redefining inclusion. It’s not just about inviting someone to the table; it’s about understanding their needs and creating a space where they can truly belong. As Red will discuss at ADUFEST, true inclusion means respecting individual needs and ensuring that everyone can occupy the place they rightfully deserve, a place from which they are frequently enough excluded.

The School Corridor: A Microcosm of Exclusion

Red vividly remembers the challenges she faced during school breaks. “For example, when there was the interval at school, one had to go to the corridor, but I was bad there as there was too much chaos. I asked to stay in the classroom and the answer was: ‘No, as there is no one who looks at you.'”

this seemingly small incident highlights a significant problem: the lack of understanding and accommodation for sensory sensitivities. For an autistic person,the noise and overstimulation of a crowded corridor can be overwhelming. True inclusion would have meant allowing Red to stay in the classroom,a simple accommodation that would have made a world of difference.

The Stigma of “Stupidity”: overcoming Misconceptions

Red’s struggles extended beyond sensory sensitivities. “I had many difficulties, for example, I am very slow even in the understanding of many things that are told to me, and in class too many information I could not absorb them all together, and I needed my times. But at the time I was told that I was stupid, that I was not capable, because I was not like the others.”

This experience is a stark reminder of the harmful impact of labeling and the importance of recognizing different learning styles. Autistic individuals may process information differently, requiring more time or option approaches. Instead of being labeled as “stupid,” they need understanding, patience, and tailored support.

Reader Poll: Have you ever witnessed or experienced a situation where someone was excluded due to their neurodiversity? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dance as Liberation: Finding Identity Beyond Stigma

Despite the challenges, Red found solace and strength in dance. “I always say that it is as if she had chosen me,because since I memory I danced,I started walking and dancing unconsciously. Dance has always made me feel good. It is my safe space.”

Dance became her sanctuary, a place where she could express herself without judgment. “I remember many times when I was isolated with other people because I was fine. They dialogue and played, then I was asked – sometimes even to make fun of me and I didn’t understand it – to dance. For me it was crucial as I was self -representation, it has always been a way to express myself beyond my difficulties.”

From Hobby to Profession: A Path to Happiness and Freedom

What started as a personal passion eventually blossomed into a fulfilling career. “Growing up I studied and has become my profession that makes me happy and free,” Red shares. Through dance, she found a way to communicate her experiences and connect with others. “With the dance ‘I speak of how we work.'”

Red’s story is a testament to the transformative power of finding one’s passion and using it to advocate for change. She’s not just a dancer; she’s a storyteller, an activist, and a beacon of hope for autistic individuals around the world.

The Future of Autism Awareness: A Call to Action

Red Fryk Hey’s work is part of a growing movement to promote autism awareness and acceptance. But there’s still much work to be done. From improving diagnostic practices to creating more inclusive environments, the future of autism awareness depends on our collective commitment to understanding, empathy, and action.

Addressing Mental Health: Specialized Therapies for Autistic minds

Red emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health challenges within the autistic community. “Taking awareness of one’s functioning – he adds – you can go to a psychotherapist specialized in autistic operation, which treats depression on autistic minds because obviously it is different from a neurotypical mind.”

This highlights the need for specialized mental health services tailored to the unique needs of autistic individuals. Traditional therapies may not be effective for those with autism, underscoring the importance of finding therapists who understand neurodiversity and can provide appropriate support.

embracing Neurodiversity: A Paradigm shift

Ultimately, Red Fryk Hey’s story is a call for a paradigm shift: a move away from trying to “fix” autistic individuals and towards embracing neurodiversity. By recognizing and celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives of autistic people, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Swift Fact: The term “neurodiversity” refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavioral traits. It emphasizes that neurological differences like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia are normal variations, not deficits.

FAQ: Understanding Autism and Inclusion

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects how a person behaves,interacts with others,communicates,and learns. It is called a “spectrum” disorder because there is a wide range of symptoms and severity.

What are some common signs of autism?

Common signs of autism can include difficulties with social interaction, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. However, symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

How is autism diagnosed?

Autism is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes observations of behavior, interviews with parents or caregivers, and standardized assessments.

What is inclusion in the context of autism?

Inclusion means creating environments where autistic individuals are valued, respected, and supported to participate fully in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and community activities. It goes beyond simply being present; it’s about ensuring that their needs are understood and met.

What can I do to support autistic individuals?

You can support autistic individuals by learning more about autism, advocating for inclusive policies, and creating environments that are sensory-friendly and accommodating. Listen to autistic voices and respect their perspectives.

Where can I find more information about autism?

You can find more information about autism from organizations like the Autism Society of America, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), and the National Autistic Society.

Dancing Towards Inclusion: A Conversation with Autism Expert Dr.Anya Sharma on Red Fryk Hey’s Inspiring Work

Keywords: Autism Awareness, Neurodiversity Inclusion, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Red Fryk Hey, Autism Advocacy, ADUFEST 2025

Time.news: Welcome,Dr. Sharma. We’re hear today to discuss the incredibly impactful work of Red Fryk Hey, a dancer adn advocate who is using her art to promote autism awareness and understanding. What are your initial thoughts on Red’s approach, using dance as a medium for communication and advocacy?

Dr. Anya sharma: I think Red Fryk Hey’s approach is nothing short of brilliant.Dance,as she eloquently demonstrates,transcends spoken language. It provides a powerful outlet for self-expression, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum who may sometimes struggle with verbal communication. By sharing her personal journey through movement and art, Red is breaking down barriers and creating a space for genuine connection and understanding, something particularly significant in autism awareness efforts.

Time.news: The article highlights Red’s late diagnosis at 31.Is this a common experience, particularly for women, and what impact does a late diagnosis have?

Dr. Anya Sharma: Regrettably, late diagnoses are indeed more common then many realize, particularly for women and marginalized genders. Frequently enough, autistic traits present differently in women, sometimes masked by societal expectations or misattributed to other conditions like anxiety or depression. As the article mentions, a late diagnosis, while initially challenging, can be a pivotal moment. It provides individuals with a framework for understanding themselves, accessing appropriate support, and ultimately improving their mental well-being. This “rediscovery of self,” as Red describes it, allows for targeted therapies and self-compassion.

Time.news: Red is slated to speak at ADUFEST 2025, focusing on “Balances” and reimagining education. How crucial are events like this in fostering neurodiversity inclusion?

Dr. Anya sharma: ADUFEST 2025 sounds like a vital platform. These events are invaluable because they bring together diverse perspectives – educators, families, individuals with autism – to engage in meaningful dialog. The theme of “Balances” is particularly resonant. It highlights the need to move beyond a deficit-based model of autism spectrum disorder and towards one that recognizes and celebrates the unique strengths and perspectives neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. Reimagining education is critical.We need educational systems that value questions as much as answers, and that accommodate different learning styles and sensory needs.

Time.news: The article mentions the challenges Red faced in school, specifically during breaks. What are some practical steps schools can take to create more inclusive environments for autistic students?

Dr. Anya Sharma: Red’s experience in the school corridor is a powerful exmaple of how seemingly minor environmental factors can have a significant impact. Schools need to prioritize sensory awareness. This could involve creating quiet zones where students can de-stress, reducing fluorescent lighting, providing noise-canceling headphones, and offering flexible break options. Furthermore,educators needs comprehensive training on autism awareness,understanding that behaviors are often communication and that accommodations are not about preferential treatment,but about creating equitable access to learning. Open communication with students and their families is paramount to understand individual needs and preferences.

Time.news: The article emphasizes the importance of specialized mental health services for autistic individuals. Why is this specialized approach so necessary?

Dr. Anya Sharma: Customary therapeutic approaches are often designed for neurotypical individuals and may not effectively address the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may need to be adapted to account for differences in cognitive processing and emotional regulation. Specialized therapists understand the nuances of autistic experience, including sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and the potential for co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression. They can tailor interventions to promote well-being and build coping skills in a way that is both effective and respectful.

Time.news: What advice would you give to readers who suspect they or someone they know might be on the autism spectrum?

Dr. Anya Sharma: The first step is to seek out a qualified professional for an evaluation. Don’t rely solely on online quizzes or self-diagnosis. A comprehensive assessment by a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist is essential. Also, connect with reputable organizations like the Autism Society of America or the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) for accurate facts and support resources.Remember that exploring the possibility of being on the autism spectrum is a journey, and self-discovery can be incredibly empowering.

Time.news: Red’s story is a call to action for a paradigm shift towards embracing neurodiversity inclusion. What does this paradigm shift look like in practice?

Dr. Anya Sharma: In practice, this paradigm shift involves moving away from the medical model, which views autism as a deficit to be “fixed,” and towards a neurodiversity model, which recognizes it as a natural variation in human brain function.This means accepting and celebrating autistic individuals for who they are, recognizing their unique strengths and perspectives, and advocating for policies and practices that promote inclusion and equity in all areas of life – education, employment, healthcare, and community. It requires listening to autistic voices, centering their experiences, and actively working to create a world where everyone can thrive on their own terms. Red Fryk Hey’s advocacy plays a vital role in driving this change.