The subject of autism has been prevalent in the news lately with particular emphasis given to its effects upon autistic persons and their families. With special attention called to the awareness of the condition, especially by Ms. Annishka White who is a devoted parent of an autistic child, the official launching of the Ispeak Autism Society took place last Thursday morning, March 22nd.
The venue for the admirable launch was the Reymond Guishard Football Stadium Conference Room where many invited guests, and parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), had gathered to support Ms. White in her noble efforts for pioneering such a worthy cause. Ms. White is the recognized President of this new Society.
The launch event was chaired by an Executive Member of the Society, Ms. Tamara Pradel. In her opening remarks Ms. White acknowledged that she highly respects a dear friend, Dr. Ronya Foy-Connor who was quite instrumental in motivating and inspiring her towards the creation of the Ispeak Autism Society.
“I stand here today,” Ms. White began, “as the founder of a vision that has become a reality. I stand as a voice for those who seem to be unheard, but seen because of their differences—those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental delays. They seem to have been hidden, yet so visible before our eyes. Their voices cry out to us, trying to get our attention, but we have been too busy to hear or even listen. We are too preoccupied to give then our time. Today, I urge you to listen, pay attention and respond with a voice of love.
Ms. White continued: “It is key to note that persons with ASD frequently have other medical disorders and health issues such as gastro-intestinal disorders, seizures, sleep disturbances, ADHD, anxiety and phobia. Autism is a developmental issue of the brain, and it is not how a person looks. The affected person’s thinking, learning, and problem solving abilities can range from gifted to severely challenged. Autism doesn’t stop when the affected individual reaches a certain age, except by divine intervention. However, persons affected can live a full life if treatment and management begins early.
“Autism is not the affected person’s familes’ problem alone. All of us as a community should be affected. I urge you to embrace a new normal. —not to accept the disorder, but to accept the individuals affected. We must nurture, care and support them and to help them become the best they can be.
“I leave you with a well-known quote: ‘Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am only a sounding brass and a tingling symbol.’ I urge you today, to speak and show love. Thank you!”
The Permanent Secretary of Education, Mrs. Chanelle Petty-Barrett, also gave an address, certain portions of which were so emotionally charged, that she moved many of those gathered to silent sobs with tears.
Mrs. Petty-Barrett expressed in part: “Today, I can speak about the importance our education system places on ensuring that the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and developmental delays are met. The Department of Education has made commendable strides in ensuring that children on the spectrum are supported in a caring and nurturing environment.
“Some teachers and teaching assistants have done a remarkable job in connecting and working with the students, demonstrating the patience and love necessary for them to thrive. I really applaud all of their efforts as they show that the right of every child to an education suited to their needs is more than words on paper.
“It takes tremendous courage to turn a personal struggle into a platform for advocacy and change. And on behalf of the Ministry of Education, I want to congratulate Ms. Annishka White, Founder and President of the Ispeak Autism Society.
“Ms White, you have used your experience as the mother of a child with autism to bring awareness; to provide support; and to make a difference. This initiative that you and your support team are spearheading today is a welcomed one, because it shows how we can collaborate to bring about the best possible results for our children. It also sends a message to other parents, who have similar struggles, letting them know that they are not alone, and they don’t have to hide or be ashamed.
“When you think about it, God uses particular people for special assignments…(she pauses, and her voice breaks)…What we may view as a trial is really a blessing…(she pauses with a tear; the audience sobs lightly). And I truly believe that some parents were specially chosen…to take this journey with these children…and the joy that you give then will be returned to you fourfold.”
Still speaking with a passionate tone of concern, Mrs. Petty-Barrett continued: “While the term ‘special education needs’ has particular connotations, I am of the view that all children are special and they all have special needs. All of us: teachers, administrators, family members, and the wider community, must acknowledge that it is OK for children to be different. It’s OK if they require more from us. We need to change our mindset, to acquire more knowledge, and to use different approaches if we are to engage them effectively.
“If we take the time to embrace opportunities and to l earn about our children and their individual needs – approaching them from a position of genuine love…and showing interest in their wellbeing – then our children will flourish. Isn’t this what we all want as parents, as educators, and as a community?
“Efforts to bring about awareness of autism and to provide some opportunities for knowledge-sharing are commendable. This is a welcome support to the work being done by the Education Department. It is my hope that, with continued collaboration, our communities as a whole will be more embracing, understanding and loving towards our children who are on the spectrum – so that they can develop their fullest potential and be all that God designed them to be. I wish you all much success in this initiative.”
Later during the day, two facilitators from the British Virgin Islands addressed the audience. They were: Ms. Danika Stoutt, a Special Education Program Coordinator, and Ms. Lorna Dawson, a Disability Services Supervisor in Tortola’s Ministry of Health and Social Development.
The Anguillan joins in congratulating Ms. White and her organization, and wishes the Ispeak Autism Society great success.
