Meet Joel M.

Leading up to our Empower Summits & Challenges this April and May, we’re kicking off a series spotlighting Empower Champions, speakers, and other participants who are making an impact in their communities 

My name is Joel, and as an autism dad, I know how important it is to connect with others who truly understand the autism journey. That’s why I’m excited about the Empower Summit & Challenge—an opportunity to come together, learn, and take action for the autism community. These events, happening in Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Houston, and Miami, bring people together to share experiences, gain insights, and make an impact. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, this is it. 

My son, Langston, 8, changed my life when he was born – he’s been inspiration behind everything I do - so, when he was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, it’s safe to say our lives were turned upside down. I needed guidance to learn about autism and best support my son. That’s when I found Autism Speaks and that’s why I signed on to be an Empower Champion in my hometown of Dallas Fort Worth! 

“I needed a crash course about autism. Is there research behind what causes it? What are some of the symptoms that might come with a diagnosis? As a chef, I even wondered about all the ways diet can impact those symptoms. I wanted to learn how to best be there for my son in every way possible.” 

Today, Langston is thriving thanks to the many services and supports he’s received through the years. He’s a lover of all things trains, especially the movie, “Polar Express” and riding the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and just staring out the window watching the world pass us by. I’m constantly in awe of how he can make the smallest moments so impactful – he’s truly my superhero.  

Learn more about this Empower Champion’s inspiration in this Q&A:

Why is it important to you to be an advocate for your son, Langston? 

To love anyone, you first stand up for them. It doesn’t matter what they have going on neurologically or otherwise. Being there is what you are supposed to do. Loving them is what you’re supposed to do. Learning how to talk to them is important. Even learning American Sign Language or finding other ways to communicate is important for those who are nonverbal.  

What does it mean to you be an active voice in Autism Speaks’ inaugural Empower Summit & Challenge? What do you hope to accomplish? 

It means that all the work that I put in training, running and learning about the event and connecting with allies in the area will all be worth it. Knowing I was going to be an Empower Champion was one of the reasons I was at that 5k race last year and now supporting the organization in this capacity is a joy. I want to accomplish everlasting change within the community. To show all the autistic adults and children out there that they’re the real superheroes and their abilities will soon be realized and recognized. 

Why would you encourage others to sign up and join in on these one-of-a-kind events? 

I want to encourage people to educate themselves on understanding autism better in general. Things like understanding stimming, why someone may be doing repetitive behaviors and when you see people on the streets having a moment, take a minute to think about why they may be acting out that way. There are always ways to help others in need rather than staring or laughing at them for being different. It’s time to appreciate the authenticity in others.

Are there certain issues or shortcomings in your area that you think need to be addressed as it pertains to the autism communities? If so, what are some of those points of concern? 

I would love to advocate for more interactive meet ups at sensory supportive environments on a regular basis. Just a place where autism parents and their children can go without the fear of stares and judgement. A place where children can be seen for who they are and feel free in their own skin. A BBQ with families and friends, a field day with water activities in the summertime, meet Santa during the holidays. The more activities that allow the children and us adults to feel like we belong and are amongst friends. That would be really cool!

Sign up for an Empower event in your area!