Press Release

NYC-Based Autistic Stand-Up Comedian Steve Cohen produces Inaugural Autism Jokes Comedy Show

Event Aims to Raise Awareness and Involvement of Autistic Performers and Artists

Steve Cohen, a hilarious stand-up comedian based in New York City, is set to produce the inaugural Autism Jokes Comedy Show. The event will take place at the Upper West Side Comedy Club in NYC on September 14th at 3pm. This groundbreaking show aims to spotlight Autistic performers and artists, fostering greater awareness and involvement of disabled individuals in the arts.

The Autism Jokes Comedy Show will feature a diverse lineup of entertainment, including performances by a rock band, a magician, and stand-up comedians. Among the comedians gracing the stage will be Steve Cohen himself, alongside Ben Rosenfeld. The event will also host exhibitors showcasing products made by and for Autistic people, further emphasizing the talents and contributions of the Autistic community.

Steve Cohen, originally from Jupiter, Florida, was diagnosed with Autism in June of 2023. This pivotal discovery has profoundly influenced both his personal life and professional career. He has dedicated himself to advocating for disabled individuals to be actively involved in the legislative processes that affect them.

Through his nonprofit organization, Autism Jokes, Cohen is committed to helping Autistic and disabled people find their voice through humor and comedy. The organization’s mission is to enable these individuals to better communicate their thoughts, needs, and feelings, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life.

"The Autism Jokes Comedy Show is more than just an event; it's a movement. We aim to create a platform where Autistic performers can shine and where the broader community can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by Autistic individuals. Humor is a powerful tool for communication, and through this show, we hope to bridge gaps and foster greater inclusion," said Steve Cohen, CEO of Autism Jokes.

The upcoming show is a testament to Cohen’s dedication to using his platform for positive change. By bringing together a variety of performers and exhibitors, the Autism Jokes Comedy Show promises to be an enlightening and entertaining experience for all attendees. It is an opportunity to celebrate the unique talents of Autistic individuals and to promote a more inclusive society.

Steve Cohen’s journey from his diagnosis to his current advocacy work underscores the transformative power of self-awareness and community support. The Autism Jokes Comedy Show is poised to be a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to elevate the voices of Autistic and disabled people in the arts and beyond.

Join us on September 14 at the Upper West Side Comedy Club for an afternoon of laughter, learning, and community. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every voice is heard.

Joining Autism Jokes with be fellow nonprofits: Autism Innovation Community Foundation & Mission: Kids Success

Founded in 2023, the Autism Innovation Community Foundation is dedicated to organizing events and providing support for families with autistic members. The Foundation focuses on holistic, innovative, and technology-based autism supports, often developed by or with autistic individuals. Through partnerships and community engagement, the Foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for those affected by autism. The foundation follows in the footsteps of the NYC Autism Community Group which sponsored the 2022 NYC Autism Tech, Innovation and Careers Expo in NYC.

Founded in 2019 by a mother inspired by the transformative effects of therapy on her children with developmental difficulties, Mission: Kid Success addresses the financial barriers many families face as numerous beneficial therapies are not covered by insurance and can be prohibitively expensive. To date, MKS has awarded over $100,000 in grants to assist children diagnosed with autism and related conditions, enabling access to essential therapies and services that would otherwise be beyond their family’s financial reach