Glen Cove Raises Neurodiversity Flag, Expanding to Statewide Recognition

The Neurodiversity Flag, designed by Nassau County's Josh Mirsky, is now flying over state buildings in honor of World Autism Month.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:06pm

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A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen print of the Neurodiversity Flag, a multicolored design featuring overlapping shapes and patterns, repeated in a grid pattern to create a bold, pop art-inspired visual representation of the flag's growing significance.The Neurodiversity Flag, now flying over state buildings, has become a symbol of acceptance and inclusion for the neurodiverse community.Glen Cove Today

For the third consecutive year, the Neurodiversity Flag was raised in Glen Cove, New York on April 7, bringing the community together in support of acceptance and inclusion for neurological differences like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. This local effort has grown into a statewide movement, with the flag now flying over state Office for People With Developmental Disabilities buildings throughout April, and state-run landmarks like the World Trade Center and Niagara Falls illuminated in the flag's colors.

Why it matters

Neurodiversity emphasizes valuing neurological differences as natural variations rather than disorders, and the raising of the Neurodiversity Flag represents a significant step forward in awareness and visibility for the neurodiverse community. This effort has garnered bipartisan support, demonstrating the power of persistence and collaboration at the local and state levels.

The details

The Neurodiversity Flag was designed by Josh Mirsky, a resident of Nassau County, New York. This year, thanks to the advocacy of Glen Cove Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck, including outreach to Governor Kathy Hochul, the flag is now flying over state-run buildings and landmarks throughout April in honor of World Autism Month.

  • The Neurodiversity Flag has been raised in Glen Cove for the third consecutive year on April 7.
  • The flag is now flying over state Office for People With Developmental Disabilities buildings throughout April.

The players

Josh Mirsky

A resident of Nassau County, New York, who designed the Neurodiversity Flag.

Pamela Panzenbeck

The Mayor of Glen Cove, New York, who advocated for the Neurodiversity Flag to be raised statewide.

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York, who supported the statewide recognition of the Neurodiversity Flag.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud to advocate for and support the neurodiverse community, not just in Glen Cove, but across the state.”

— Pamela Panzenbeck, Mayor of Glen Cove

The takeaway

This continued effort in Glen Cove and across New York State highlights the power of local leadership and community pride in uplifting and celebrating neurodiversity, fostering acceptance and inclusion for individuals with neurological differences.