Dionne Jennings, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Security (MLSS), said the ministry hosting the World Autism Awareness Day Symposium is to celebrate the vibrant and diverse spectrum of minds that make up the world.

Jennings, speaking at the symposium on Tuesday expressed that each individual “has a special mind that we can contribute, and we need to embrace first of all, and we need to celebrate it because we are a part of the inclusion agenda”.

She also stated that people have different ways in which they experience and process situations. “In a world where the pace of change is often overwhelming, it’s easy to forget that the ways in which we think, in which we process and experience life are all unique, and we need to recognise the differences that each person has in terms of their brain development.

“As we recognise this, however, we need to remember that persons who have differences in their brain development face significant barriers, social stigmas and sometimes misunderstandings, and we at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security are committed to ensuring that there are the reasonable arrangements in place in the services we offer through the Early Stimulation Programme. [Also], the Ministry of Education, through the services they provide through the Special Education Department, ensures that everyone can thrive, everyone can experience educational opportunities and everyone can have a fulfilled life,” Jennings continued.

Christine Hendricks, Executive Director at the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disability (JCPD), also outlined that World Autism Awareness Day is an opportunity to increase awareness about autism and promote acceptance and inclusion for persons on the autism spectrum.

To promote greater understanding and advocacy for persons with disabilities, the MLSS recently celebrated World Down Syndrome Day on Friday, March 21, to celebrate the lives and contributions of people with Down syndrome and to raise awareness about the unique challenges they may face.

Hendricks said these observances remind persons of the importance of creating a more inclusive society where all people, regardless of their ability, are valued, respected and allowed to thrive. “Early intervention, especially through programmes like the Early Stimulation Programme (ESP), plays a vital role in assisting our children with disabilities to reach their full potential.

The work being done through the ESP is certainly invaluable, as it helps to lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning, growth and inclusion. For our teachers and students from our teachers colleges and other institutions, you also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our children with varying special needs. Your dedication to education and inclusive practices will ensure that every child, regardless of their ability, has the tools and support they need to succeed,” she added.

Hendricks also recognised parents for their strength and commitment in caring for their children with disabilities. “For parents and caregivers, your resilience and commitment to your children’s development stand as a testament to the love you have and the value you place in the lives of your children regardless of their abilities. You are the first advocates, the strongest supporters, and the most essential guides in your child’s journey.”

She noted that the partnership among parents, teachers, and communities is crucial in creating an environment where children with disabilities can grow, blossom, and bloom. “It is our collective responsibility to create spaces that are not only physically accessible but also emotionally and intellectually inclusive, where every individual feels welcomed, valued and empowered.

“Together we can break barriers, challenge misconceptions and ensure that our education system and society as a whole embrace persons with disabilities. We should ensure that there are no barriers to accessing their rights and their privileges,” Hendricks said.