On Autism Awareness Day, a Long Island-based neurodivergent newsroom hopes to break not just barriers, but news. 

For the last five years, Autisticana has given more than a dozen neurodivergent and autistic Long Islanders a place for their voices to be heard.

Founder Dr. Christine Grimaldi developed the newsroom after being inspired by her mentor, legendary journalist Barbara Walters. 

"Have them learn effective communication, interviewing as we do field trips, and do news pieces and how to live a purpose because these kids feel ostracized from the community," she said.

The journalists have weekly deadlines for articles and have even published their own books.

Autisticana support staff member Jonathan Pizzolo says the impact this has on those in the newsroom is monumental.

"It helps them speak on things that they're interested in that they would not normally be able to get out to the community,” he said.

Scott Weisbrot, of Merrick, says they have the ability to write about anything they’re interested in.

"They can write about animals or cartoons or sports or people or friends,” he said.

They need help to continue showing the world, and others like them, one thing.

"We may be different, but we're not that different from everybody else,” said Cara DiFiore, of Farmingdale. “We want the same things as everybody else does.”

Panagiotis Pagonis, of Garden City, says being in the program has changed them for the better.

"We've changed for the better because Autisticana made us who we are," he said. "You are loved and you do matter even if the world doesn't see it."

Those looking to get involved in the newsroom or help to support their cause should contact Dr. Grimaldi at [email protected].