Breaking Barriers
An Evening with Ezra' Sets New Standard for Neurodivergent Inclusion in Hollywood
By Sophia Lowe
On May 21, 2024, Love & Autism made history with the debut of 'An Evening with Ezra' at The Writer’s Guild Theater in Los Angeles. This groundbreaking event marked the first neurodivergent-affirming film screening in Hollywood, setting a new standard for inclusivity and representation in the entertainment industry.
The event centered around the film 'Ezra,' which tells the story of a father navigating the challenges of co-parenting his autistic son. With an impressive cast including Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rainn Wilson, the film was brought to life by writer Tony Spiridakis and director Tony Goldwyn. The film is notable not only for its story but also for featuring autistic actor William Fitzgerald in a lead role, ensuring authenticity in its portrayal of neurodiversity.
Dr. Jenny Palmiotto, founder of Love & Autism and an advocate for neurodivergent-affirming care, expressed her satisfaction with the event. “We aimed to make everyone feel welcomed and able to be their true selves. We believe we accomplished just that,” she said. The screening aimed to challenge the ableism ingrained in traditional film practices, promoting a more inclusive environment.
Alex Plank, an autistic advocate and filmmaker, played a crucial role as the film’s associate producer and DEI advisor. He ensured that both the production and the event itself were inclusive and supportive. Plank’s involvement extended beyond the film, as he worked to create an environment at the screening that mirrored the film’s principles of inclusivity.
'An Evening with Ezra' was thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of the neurodivergent community. The event featured various accommodations, including noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, sensory experiences, grounding areas, and quiet reflection spaces. Guests could also use colored sashes to signal their need for personal space. These measures ensured that everyone could enjoy the event comfortably.
The evening also showcased autistic talent, with performances by 'The Autistic Chef' Vanessa D’Souza, harpist Evangeline, and violinist Navid. Attendees explored art installations by neurodivergent artists, including Dimitri Spiridakis, who inspired the character of Ezra.
The event concluded with an intimate discussion featuring key figures involved in the film’s creation, including actor Bobby Cannavale, director Tony Goldwyn, writer Tony Spiridakis, and associate producer Alex Plank. This discussion highlighted the importance of authentic representation in entertainment. Guests then participated in a collective art project, fostering further conversations in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Dr. Palmiotto reflected on the success of the evening, stating, “Our goal was to celebrate the autistic community in a way that feels comfortable and welcoming to them. We hope this is just the beginning, inspiring more events that are both inclusive and authentic in the future.”
The success of 'An Evening with Ezra' sets a precedent for future events and underscores the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels represented and included.
