Page 13 - LRCC April 2022 Focus

lansingchamber.org DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Lansing Man Opens Nation’s First Autism History Museum

By: Elizabeth Yassick, Kolt Communications

ansing resident Xavier DeGroat has
opened the country’s first autism
Lhistory museum in the Meridian
Mall, highlighting the history of autism
and notable figures on the autism
spectrum. The museum opened in
February of this year and is open for the
public to better understand those living
with autism.

DeGroat was diagnosed with Asperger’s
syndrome when he was four years old and
has dedicated his life to advocating for
those on the autism spectrum through
the Xavier DeGroat Foundation. The
foundation focuses on autism awareness
and provides resources for those living with autism and
their families. DeGroat helped pass a bill in Michigan that
allows people with autism to have a special designation on
their license and state identification so law enforcement
can adequately handle interactions with them.

After successfully implementing this legislation, DeGroat
wanted to expand on what he and his foundation were
doing. He always had dreams of being a museum curator.
When he was younger, he would frequently visit the Henry
Ford Museum with aspirations of eventually working there.
Fast forward years later, DeGroat created his museum to experience for guests on the autism spectrum. The Mr.
bring awareness to the topic of autism history. Rogers-themed museum is complete with a fish tank,
music, and sensory-friendly toys to stimulate motor skills.
“It’s important for people to learn about autism history, DeGroat hopes to expand on this idea and grow the
so people with autism don’t get labeled inappropriately,” Meridian Mall location through special events.
said DeGroat. “It’s also so families and children can be
optimistic that many important historical figures had “We will have events at the museum, so keep an eye out
autism and were very successful.” for story times with authors and other special guest
speakers,” said DeGroat.
The museum features a timeline of autism history and
includes biographies of important historical figures The museum is free to enter, but gift shop items are
who had autism, such as Andy Warhol, Thomas Edison, available, and proceeds will go towards the Xavier DeGroat
and Albert Einstein. The museum is not only a learning Foundation. To learn more about Xavier’s efforts to raise
experience for families to enjoy but also a sensory-friendly awareness, visit www.xavierdegroatfoundation.org. l

April is Autism Acceptance Month

pril is a great month to visit the Xavier DeGroat Autism Museum at the Meridian Mall. The Autism Society
of America, the nation’s oldest leading grassroots autism organization, is proud to celebrate Autism
AAcceptance Month in April 2021 with its “Celebrate Differences” campaign. Designed to build a better
awareness of the signs, symptoms, and realities of autism, #CelebrateDifferences focuses on providing information
and resources for communities to be more aware of autism, promote acceptance, and be more inclusive in
everyday life. For more information, visit www. autismsociety.org/autism-acceptance-month. l

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