Rumer Willis Says Sister Tallulah's Autism Diagnosis Was a 'Homecoming': 'It Gave Her Permission to Be Exactly Who She Is'

Rumer Willis is immensely proud of her sister Tallulah Willis.

The Once upon a time…in Hollywood actress, 36, spoke at the Autism Speaks Los Angeles Gala on Thursday, October 24, about Tallulah’s autism diagnosis. In her speech, Rumer praised Tallulah’s confidence and self-discovery.

She introduced her “extraordinary sister” Tallulah, 30, who was honored that night for her “commitment to promoting autism acceptance and awareness, exemplifies the mission of Autism Speaks and reflects her deep passion for the cause,” according to a released press release. with PEOPLE.

“From the very beginning, she stood out—not only because of her creativity, which was wild and boundless, but because of the way she seemed to exist on a slightly different frequency than the rest of us,” Rumer began her speech. “While other kids were coloring inside the lines, she was busy inventing her own worlds. And honestly, most of us were lucky just to keep up.”

Tallulah Willis (left) and Rumer Willis attend the Autism Speaks Los Angeles Gala on October 24, 2024.

Amanda Edwards/Getty

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Rumer noted that along with Tallulah’s brilliance, there is a “sensitivity.”

She explained: “A way of experiencing the world that was both beautiful and, at times, overwhelming. Things that most people never think about – textures, sounds, crowded rooms – can seem like insurmountable obstacles.”

For years, the actress watched her younger sister deal with challenges, working with therapists to find a solution. “It was like she had all the ingredients for peace, but she was stuck trying to make a recipe without instructions,” Rumer recalled.

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“When she was finally diagnosed with autism, it wasn’t a revelation as much as a homecoming,” Rumer said of Tallulah’s diagnosis in the summer of 2023.

“It gave her permission to be exactly who she was, without apology or explanation,” Rumer continued. “Since then, I’ve seen her grow into herself with breathtaking grace and confidence. It’s like watching someone finally exhale after holding their breath for years.”

Rumer added, “She’s found comfort in her own skin, not by changing who she is, but by fully embracing it — quirks, sensitivities and all.”

Tallulah Willis attends the Autism Speaks Los Angeles Gala on October 24, 2024.

Amanda Edwards/Getty

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Rumer called Tallulah extraordinary because she turned her journey “outward” by helping others. “Tallulah has put her energy into “building a community where others — especially women, who are often overlooked — can find understanding and belonging,” she added. “This is not a job for her; it’s a deep call to show up and be of service, and she’s already making an impact that will reverberate far beyond tonight.”

The House rabbit the actress concluded her heartfelt speech by thanking her sister for teaching her that “being different isn’t something to overcome — it’s something to appreciate.” She described watching Tallulah grow up as “one of the greatest privileges” of her life.

“So here’s to you — your journey, your heart, and all the greatness that’s yet to come. I couldn’t be more proud to stand with you tonight and cheer you on,” Rumer finished.

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Rumer Willis (left) and Tallulah Willis in April 2024.

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Tallulah spoke to PEOPLE about her autism diagnosis in August, calling it a “superpower.”

“I know that’s my own journey, being someone who’s on the higher-functioning side of the spectrum,” she said at the time.

“I feel very happy,” she added. “And with that comes my responsibility and my desire to continue to raise awareness and advocate, especially for women who are diagnosed late.”

She also said that receiving the diagnosis gave her “a level of validation and kind of feeling like these things aren’t just in my head or more than anything, I’m not too much.”

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Source: HIS Education