Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen graced the commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day 2015.
Addressing those gathered to commemorate the day, Her Majesty said, “In Bhutan, we continue to work towards ensuring the rights of people living with special needs; to end prejudice, increase self-reliance, recognize unique talents and to continually reinforce a community that is inclusive and devoted to upholding the innate and equal dignity of all people.”
Her Majesty expressed appreciation for the numerous organizations as well as donors, both local and international, who work tirelessly to address the profound challenges faced by people with special needs, and their families, and the numerous individuals who have accepted this indispensible duty to consistently effect and stimulate the strength, skill and abilities of those with special needs with the unwavering commitment of their time and abiding service.
“Let us persist in renewed efforts to ensure that children with disabilities grow to achieve their greatest potential, unobstructed by barriers and cared for by all in our society bound to common good, in which the character of our nation and people is centered, and remains a measure of true progress,” Her Majesty said.
Her Majesty launched the Ability Bhutan Society Strategic Plan Document, and an animated video on autism awareness produced by the Ability Bhutan Society at the event.
The theme for this year’s World Autism Awareness Day is ‘Employment: The Autism Advantage.’
The Ability Bhutan Society (ABS) with government agencies and other partners organized the event. Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen is the Royal Patron of Ability Bhutan Society.