Minister Furbert Remarks - Autism Awareness Month Proclamation

Bermuda Government News

Published April 2nd, 2026

Detected April 4th, 2026

Summary

Bermuda's Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors proclaimed April 2026 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month on April 2, 2026. Minister Tinee Furbert delivered remarks highlighting expanded inclusive camp programming and autism-specific staff training. The proclamation celebrates neurodiversity and commits the government to continued collaboration with families, educators, and community organizations.

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What changed

The Bermuda Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, under Minister Tinee Furbert, formally proclaimed April 2026 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month on April 1st, 2026. The proclamation announces expanded inclusive camp and recreational programming as well as enhanced autism-specific training for government staff. This ceremonial and informational document reaffirms the government's commitment to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.

This proclamation does not create new regulatory obligations or compliance requirements for regulated entities. No deadlines, penalties, or mandatory actions are imposed. The document serves as an informational announcement highlighting existing and planned government initiatives rather than establishing new legal requirements. Stakeholders in healthcare, education, and social services may wish to note the government's stated priorities for awareness and inclusion programming.

Source document (simplified)

Minister Tinee Furbert Remarks - Autism Awareness Month

02 April, 2026

Message Delivered by the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP at the Bermuda Autism Support & Education’s Proclamation Day April 1 st 2026.

Good afternoon everyone,

As we observe Autism Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of not only recognising autism, but also committing ourselves to meaningful action that supports inclusion, accessibility and opportunity for all.

Autism Awareness Month provides us with an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come, while also challenging ourselves to do more. Awareness is essential—but it is only the beginning. True progress is achieved when awareness leads to action, and when our understanding is reflected in the systems, programmes and environments we create.

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors remains committed to supporting children and young people with diverse neurological profiles. We believe that every young person deserves access to safe, inclusive and enriching experiences that allow them to thrive, participate fully, and reach their fullest potential.

In recent months, the Ministry has taken important steps to strengthen support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This includes expanding inclusive camp and recreational programming, as well as enhancing autism-specific training for staff. These efforts are designed to ensure that our services are not only accessible, but responsive to the needs of the children and families we serve.

We recognise that families and caregivers play a critical role in the lives of children with autism, and we remain committed to working alongside them, as well as educators, community organisations and service providers. Together, we can build environments where neurodivergent individuals feel supported, valued and empowered.

Autism Awareness Month is also a time to celebrate the unique strengths, perspectives and contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum. Neurodiversity enriches our communities, and embracing it strengthens us all.

As we move forward, let us continue to turn awareness into action. Let us challenge barriers, expand opportunities, and foster a society where every individual is included and respected.

Thank you.