Autistic Wings
This National Autism Acceptance Month, So Danca is proud to shine a spotlight on a truly inspiring initiative: an autistic-centered dance school that celebrates the beauty of neurodiversity through movement and expression. At the heart of this school is 13-year-old Leta and her mom—a passionate, talented duo whose vision and leadership are creating a space where everyone can feel seen, supported, and empowered. Leta is not only dancing her heart out—she’s leading with it. But she can’t do it alone. Join us in supporting Leta and this incredible school as they continue to build a more inclusive and joyful world through dance.
@letatapstyles on Instagram
Here is a letter from Leta herself along with a link to support her and Autistic Wings Dance Academy:
Hi, I’m Leta, the founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company. I’m 13 years old, I love to dance. I love tap dancing. I have severe dyslexia and I’m autistic. My dyslexia and my autism shouldn’t define who I am and shouldn’t make other people think I can’t dance.
I’ve had dance teachers who say they care about me but say that my autism means I’ll never have a dance career, but my autism shouldn’t and will never define if I have a dance career. My teachers might think my autism defines me, but my mentors have always told me it doesn’t. And with their help, I have always soared higher, and I have flown around the country, even if I’m scared of heights.
Taking a page from my mentors’ book, I started Autistic Wings Dance Company. It’s a dance studio where kids like me can be themselves and not have to worry about being bullied or feeling bad. It’s a nonprofit, because autism therapies are expensive, and no one should ever have to worry about paying to do the thing they love to do.
I hope that the future of Autistic Wings is that no other kids has to ever feel like they won’t fit into any friend group.
WANT TO HELP?
Support Leta and Autistic Wings Dance Academy HERE.
Learn more here:
Autistic Wings Dance Company