Why US faith communities are prioritising inclusivity and accessibility

Hardwick’s journey from diagnosis to advocacy inspires churches to embrace inclusivity for all worshippers. Photos: Instagram/Lamarhardwick

Reverend Lamar Hardwick was the pastor of a church in LaGrange, Georgia, the United States when he was diagnosed with autism at 36. Before his diagnosis in 2014, Hardwick heard complaints from his congregation and staffers that he was distant and not very communicative.

He would later learn that his autism made it hard for him to understand non-verbal communication.