By Theresa Knapp

The next time you’re on the MBTA, you might hear the voice of Colson Tacosik, 13, of Hopedale come over the loudspeaker. 

Colson created a public service announcement as part of the T’s celebration of Autism Acceptance Month in April. 

Colson’s mother, Kate Rose, learned about the program from the Autism Alliance in Framingham. According to autismalliance.org, the Massachusetts-based organization provides “support, programs, and resources to families and individuals affected by autism spectrum disorders.” 

Rose says, “So many individuals with autism love trains, and this was such a special opportu nity for those who participated. I love the language of ‘autism acceptance,’ and I love that the MBTA was so willing to partner with the Autism Transit Project.”  

In 2022, the Autism Transit Project started in New York City. According to autismtransitproject.com, “Many children with [Autism Spectrum Disorder] exhibit perseverative behaviors around trains. It is not at all unusual for the first full sentences an autistic child utters to be a train announcement.” 

The PSAs were designed to provide helpful hints for making riding the train easier for everyone. 

Rose said participants were sent a script that they were encouraged to personalize. She recorded Colson on her cellphone and submitted it for approval. This was Colson’s message:

“Hello, my name is Colson and I love trains. My favorite MBTA is the purple line. This year, the MBTA is recognizing Autism Acceptance Month by letting me make this announcement. Please take off your backpacks on crowded trains to make room for others. Plus, no one likes to get whacked in the face by your backpack - I know that I don’t!  Enjoy your ride!”

At the end of the process, project participants were invited to the MBTA headquarters where they took a tour which included the control room, and met with dispatchers of whom they were able to ask (many) questions.