Gubernatorial Proclamation - Autism Awareness Day

Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. has signed a proclamation designating Monday, April 19, 2010 as “Autism Awareness Day” in the territory. On this day, the governor urges Virgin Islanders to increase their awareness of the epidemic of autism spectrum disorders and support the territory's autistic population and their families.

Autism is a growing global health crisis. Recent statistics show one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, and one in every 70 boys. This lifelong developmental disability typically develops before a child's fourth birthday. The disorder is treatable with aggressive therapies and inclusion in general education. It is now well-known that, autistic people can live independent and highly productive lives in society.

There is evidence that here in the territory we are drastically under-diagnosing autism spectrum disorders. Only through increased public knowledge about these disabilities can we recognize the signs of autism in a greater number of children early in their lives. By making an accurate diagnosis of autism, Asperger syndrome or atypical autism early in life, we increase the effectiveness of intensive intervention and give the child his or her best chance of overcoming their challenges.

de Jongh reminds Virgin Islanders that we all have a role to play in improving the lives of children and adults who suffer from autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities, and helping them lead full and meaningful lives. To ensure his administration is taking steps to advance that goal, in February the governor appointed Stephanie Barnes as the territory's Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator. 

Barnes has been working to ensure that all government agencies comply with a federal mandate prohibiting discrimination because of disability. With the appointment, the governor realized a campaign promise to put someone in a position to advocate on behalf of Virgin Islanders with special needs, improving their employment opportunities and access to public institutions.

“Our community must strive to welcome and embrace the unique talents and skills of people who struggle with autism,” de Jongh said. The governor asks the territory's residents to join him in advancing this goal on Autism Awareness Day. 

First Lady Cecile de Jongh will participate in Monday’s Conference on Autism sponsored jointly by the V.I. University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and the Virgin Islands Autism Network. On Wednesday, the governor will speak at a similar conference on St. Croix. 

###