HONORING JOSH MIRSKY FOR HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY

On 2026-04-16, Representative Thomas R. Suozzi (D-NY-3) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JOSH MIRSKY FOR HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered education.

HONORING JOSH MIRSKY FOR HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E338] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JOSH MIRSKY FOR HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY ______ HON. THOMAS R. SUOZZI of new york in the house of representatives Thursday, April 16, 2026 Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my constituent, Josh Mirsky, who created the Neurodiversity Strength Flag. Sadly, many neurodivergent Americans feel that they don't belong and that the world is not designed for them. Too often, they face ignorance and stigma. They face bullying at school, at work, and even in their families. They are picked last for sports teams and scolded by teachers for behaviors they themselves may not fully understand. They struggle in job interviews when employers misinterpret differences in communication styles--such as difficulty maintaining eye contact--as a lack of confidence or ability. For Josh Mirsky, and other neurodivergent Americans, these challenges are not signs of personal weakness, but of the weakness of a society that has yet to appreciate diverse and unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world. The consequences of this misunderstanding can be devastating. Research shows that many neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with conditions such as autism or ADHD, experience significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. It was for this reason that Josh created the Neurodiversity Strength Flag in October 2021--a flag of red, white, and gold. The design features two red bars at each end, a gold backdrop, and a large white diamond containing a red infinity symbol, accented with subtle gold highlights. When asked to explain the symbolism of the flag, Josh said: ``Red is a power color, representing the immense inner power and strength of neurodivergent people. We have survived and endured so much. In the diamond we see value, because deep down we have always known our worth--and when this flag flies high, the world will see it as well. In gold we see first place. For too long we have been seen and treated as second- or third-class citizens. We fly this flag unapologetically and say: no more. We are first class, just like the rest of the population. And in the infinity symbol we see the true emblem of neurodiversity-- not a puzzle piece struggling to fit in, but an infinite spectrum of possibilities.'' Mr. Speaker, I am proud to call Josh Mirsky my constituent. His creativity, compassion, and dedication to uplifting others is exemplary. By creating the Neurodiversity Strength Flag, Josh has given a sense of pride and visibility to millions of neurodivergent individuals. ____________________