The Autism Centre’s Programme Director, Ms. Lorna Dawson is reminding the public that persons with Autism are not to be shunned or discriminated against as one cannot catch the disorder.

Ms. Dawson stated that as the centre prepares for Autism Awareness Month in April under the theme, ‘Autism is not contagious but kindness is’, there is a need to encourage people to be more tolerant and understanding before judging a child or person who may be a bit different.

“We want persons to understand that everyone is different; that is what makes us all unique and beautiful,” she said.

Autism Awareness Month is an annual observance that provides an opportunity to promote autism awareness, autism acceptance and to draw attention to families and persons who face a diagnosis of autism each year.

Throughout the month of April, the Autism Centre, BVI Services, and the Family and Protective Unit within the Social Development Department will be partnering with various schools, businesses and non-governmental agencies to educate and promote acceptance.

A church service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on April 2 at the Faith Baptist Church in Road Town to mark World Autism Day. The church service will also signal the launch of the month of activities.

All residents are invited to ‘Light it up Blue’ by purchasing blue bulbs or lights and having them displayed in the evening to advocate for persons living with Autism.

An Awareness March has been organised for April 7, starting at 10 a.m. at the Althea Scatliffe Primary School grounds followed by a Fun Day at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Some activities will include face painting, bouncy castle, and a puppet show.

The Autism Centre will also host an Open House on April 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. while BVI Services will host an Open House from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on April 21.

For more information on Autism awareness activities, contact 468-3672.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide a caring and integrated system of health and social services that facilitates human development and improves the quality of life in the Virgin Islands.