It began with an everyday encounter. One family with an autistic teen shared a concern with a local police officer. Soon after, an idea was born that sparked a growing movement. The issue at the center of it all affects millions of families across the United States: How can first responders better understand and communicate with neurodivergent individuals during traffic stops and emergencies? 

Sergeant Kyrie Lucas is a longstanding member of the Gluckstadt, Mississippi, Police Department. It was his conversation with two worried parents, Adam and Amber Wells, that got the ball rolling. The Wellses’ son, Amare, has level 3 autism, which means he’s mostly nonverbal.

Adam Wells had an understandable concern that high-stress situations, like traffic stops, can easily lead to dangerous misunderstandings for people like his son. Autistic........

© Upworthy