For World Autism Awareness Week, an Autistic 8-Year-Old Voice Is Broadcasting Infinite “I Love You’s”
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“I Love You Infinity” is an autism awareness campaign by copywriter Lisa Berenson (Facebook) and her son William, in partnership with designer Oriana Gaeta (RGA) and Good Praxis Coop. The project is inspired by the unique, mathematical way William expresses his love by counting ‘I love yous’. The team recorded and programmed his voice to allow him to continue counting forever online, to share the infinite love that can live inside an autistic heart. They are also sending postcards with messages of love to people at home to lift spirits in these uncertain times. Together they hope to raise awareness around autism and love.
“When I was first told William might be on the spectrum, I was in denial because he was so emotional and loving. That didn’t align with my idea of what autism was at the time, which meant I didn’t get him the diagnosis he needed sooner,” says Lisa. “Many parents and adults I’ve met have shared similar experiences.”
“An unfortunate myth about autism is that individuals with this diagnosis have no emotions and that they somehow lack empathy,” adds Dr. Sebastian Gaigg of the Autism Research Group at City University London. “While ASD individuals may express and experience their emotions differently, it is not the case that they lack emotions altogether.”
“When we started this project we had no idea what the world would be like by the time we finished,” continues Lisa. “So we had to change course a bit. Instead of launching as a public audio installation and printing posters as planned, we’re launching online and sending postcards to people stuck at home who could use a message of love. Hopefully, we can bring people some comfort, while also raising awareness. ASD kids and adults need support now more than ever.”
The infinite audio begins on 30 March 2020 at 10:00 AM and has been programmed to continue counting 'I love yous' forever. The project website iloveyouinfinty.com aims to raise money for the National Autistic Society.
The team is also collecting and sharing real ASD stories of love submitted by followers on Instagram.
