ATLANTA — To mark Autism Awareness Month, MARTA is featuring rail station announcements made by local children and young adults on the autism spectrum.
One of those people is 7-year-old Immanuel Stephens, and when he talks, everybody listens.
“Hi, my name is Immanuel,” the voice coming through the loudspeaker said. “Please help us keep MARTA clean. Please don’t litter. Hope you enjoy your ride!”
“That’s me,” Immanuel told Channel 2′s Berndt Petersen.
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“It feels like it’s happy everywhere in my body. It feels like it’s dancing happy,” Immanuel said.
The messages can be heard on the platforms at all 38 MARTA stations.
“He’s so warm and kind. He deserves the wonderful recognition and opportunity this gives him and all the other wonderful kids who are part of the Autism Transit Project,” Immanuel’s mom Lisa said.
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Immanuel wanted to repeat the message live for Petersen.
“Hi, my name is Immanuel and I really like trains. Please help us keep MARTA clean. Please don’t litter. Hope you enjoy your ride,” Immanuel said.
He’s a true professional.
“What makes me proud is that I did an excellent job of it. Yes, I’m proud of myself for sure!”
Rapid transit systems in New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. are also part of the Autism Transit Project.
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