The “SEI Incluir” project begins activities focused on social integration and knowledge about autism.

The program seeks to consolidate a more inclusive city through the dissemination of knowledge and support for families. Photo: Press release/Rio City Hall

The "SEI Incluir" project, an initiative of the Special Secretariat for Inclusion (Sinc-Rio), has begun its schedule of actions aimed at guaranteeing the rights and dignity of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neurodivergent individuals. Based on Law No. 12.764/2012, which establishes the National Policy for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the program seeks to consolidate a more inclusive city through the dissemination of knowledge and direct support to families.

Initial Actions: Culture and Territorial Dialogue

On May 28th, the project held its first official meeting, promoting a visit to the Museum of Tomorrow with atypical families from the Rocinha and Campo Grande communities. The event included a strategic discussion circle to clarify doubts, reinforcing the principle of valuing listening and the protagonism of the population served.

Continuing its awareness-raising efforts, the project will hold a special activity on May 29th at 9:00 AM in the Aço community, in Santa Cruz. Under the theme "Autism: Understanding to Include," the meeting will address how autism accompanies individuals throughout all stages of life—from childhood to old age—requiring appropriate perceptions and support for each stage.

Impact and Reach Strategy

The effectiveness of the SEI Incluir program is based on intersectoral collaboration, combining the technical expertise of SINC-Rio with the reach of the Social Territories program (IPP). This union allows actions to reach the five Programmatic Areas (AP) of the municipality, prioritizing territories with high rates of social vulnerability. The focus is on families facing emotional overload and isolation, often in households headed by women.

With a set goal of providing at least 800 services per month, the project utilizes dynamic formats such as workshops, lectures, and the distribution of educational materials throughout the municipal network.

To ensure excellence in service and the fulfillment of the work plan over 24 months, the project has a technical staff of 65 professionals, including psychologists, social workers, and educators. In addition to its external mission, SEI Incluir reaffirms its commitment to institutional equity by adopting quotas for Afro-descendants (20%), people with disabilities (2%), and young apprentices (5%) within its own team.

This set of actions aims not only at immediate assistance, but also at the lasting transformation of the local reality, promoting the autonomy and full social integration of neurodivergent citizens in Rio de Janeiro.