April 2nd marks Autism Awareness Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness, acceptance, and understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Every year, the Turks & Caicos Islands’ join other organizations around the world in promoting inclusivity and celebrating the unique strengths of individuals with autism.
According to the latest statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 100 children worldwide has ASD, with prevalence rates continuing to rise. Despite these numbers, many individuals with autism still face stigma, discrimination, and barriers to accessing education, employment, and healthcare.
In the Turks and Caicos Islands, we are proud to join the global movement to promote autism awareness and acceptance. As part of our efforts, we will be hosting several events throughout the month of April:
1. Fridays in Blue: Every Friday in April, we are encouraging the public to wear blue in support of spreading awareness.
2. Fun Day for Special Education Children: On Friday, April 26th, special education children from all schools in Providenciales are invited to participate in a day of fun-filled activities at the Snap Center. This event aims to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where children can socialize, learn, and thrive.
3. Autism Awareness “Rainbow” Walk: On Saturday, April 27th, we will be organizing an Autism Awareness Walk in Providenciales. This community event aims to raise awareness about autism and promote acceptance and understanding. Participants will walk together to show support for individuals with autism and their families. Upon registration, each participant will receive an autism awareness t-shirt to commemorate the occasion.
Director of Special Education Needs Services, Dr. Anya Malcolm-Gibbs, shared her thoughts on the importance of Autism Awareness Daty: “Autism Awareness Day serves as a reminder that every individual, regardless of their neurodiversity, deserves to be accepted and included in society. Care for our children with autism needs to be accompanied by actions on a community and country level to ensure greater accessibility, inclusion, and support.”
The Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, also emphasized the significance of promoting autism awareness and acceptance: “Education is the key to fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. By raising awareness about autism and embracing neurodiversity in our schools and communities, we can create a more compassionate and supportive world for individuals with autism.”
We invite members of the media and the community to join us in celebrating Autism Awareness Day and supporting individuals with autism and their families.
For more information about our events and initiatives, please contact the Department of Special Education Needs Services at sens@gov.tc , also see the attached flyer for the free rainbow walk registration.
