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The Arts in Inclusion a Japanese American Dancing Beyond the Boundaries
In this episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ guest Marisa Hamamoto shares her incredible journey as a trailblazing keynote speaker, dancer, founder of ‘Infinite Flow Dance,’ and entrepreneur. A spinal stroke survivor and late-diagnosed autistic, Marisa discusses her intersectional identity as a fourth-generation Japanese American and her mission to promote disability inclusion. Highlights include her impact on the dance world, her journey to self-advocacy, the importance of small actions leading to significant changes, and her latest project for the Disability Film Challenge titled ‘Killed It.‘ Marisa’s story is inspiring and highlights the importance of representation and inclusion in various spheres.
Killed It.
Watch, like, and comment on Marisa’s powerful film “Killed It.” on YouTube to help amplify her voice and elevate her entry in the 2025 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge:
Key Themes from This Episode
🌱 The Power of One Small Action
🗣️ The Power of Sharing Your Story
🎁 Unleash Your Unique Gifts to Change the World
🧩 Embracing Autism: A Journey to Self-Acceptance
💧 From Tears to Triumph: A Stand Against Injustice
🎨 Born to Advocate: The Power of Seven Strokes
🩰 Facing Prejudice in the Ballet World
♿ Revolutionizing Inclusion: Why Disability-First Design Changes Everything
🔍 Inclusivity Matters: Who Are We Leaving Out?
🧠 A Journey into Neurodivergence: Discovering Myself Through Others
💃 A Journey Rooted in Dance and Advocacy
✨ Transformative Power of Dance
🌈 Infinite Flow and Marisa’s Vision
Jump to Your Favorite Moments
00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia
00:25 Meet Marisa Hamamoto: Trailblazer and Advocate
01:30 Marisa’s Journey: Overcoming Adversity
02:28 Infinite Flow: Redefining Dance and Inclusion
05:07 High School Experience: A Turning Point
08:47 The Power of Small Actions
17:07 Embracing Neurodiversity: Marisa’s Late Autism Diagnosis
22:24 Disability Film Challenge: Creating ‘Killed It’
32:32 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
33:52 Pushing Forward Moment: Inspirational Advice
A Quote from Marisa
What’s that one thing that’s really important right now to do? Who is left out, what new door could I open?
~ Marisa Hamamoto
Connect with Marisa Hamamoto
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Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia. Open hearts, clear paths. Let’s go.