On the afternoon of March 25, the 18th World Autism Awareness Day themed event, titled “Implementing Care Action Plans to Promote Holistic Development for Autism Communities,” was successfully held at the Third Floor Auditorium of the East Campus of Capital Normal University. The event was organized by the Beijing Haidian District Health Commission and the Beijing Association for Mentally Disabled Persons and Their Families, co-hosted by Haidian District Mental Rehabilitation Hospital, Beijing Jianxiang School, and Beijing Qifu Autism Rehabilitation Center, with support from Capital Normal University.

Distinguished attendees included Zheng Yi, Vice Chairman of the China Disabled Persons’ Federation, former vice president of Beijing Anding Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University, and a nationally renowned expert on childhood mental disorders; Yang Taifeng, Deputy Director of the Beijing Disabled Persons’ Federation; Lin Hang, Deputy District Mayor of Haidian District; and Ma Ligeng, Vice President of Capital Normal University.

Ma Ligeng emphasized the university’s commitment to its teacher-training mission, stating that Capital Normal University would continue advancing autism intervention research and providing professional support for the development of autism communities.

Lin Hang highlighted Haidian District’s role as a national pilot zone for autism care initiatives, noting its long-term efforts to build a multi-tiered rehabilitation service network and foster a new ecosystem for special education.

Zheng Yi underscored the critical role of family-society collaboration in supporting autism rehabilitation. During a panel discussion, experts including Li Wenxiu, Zheng Yi, Wang Zhengyan, Wang Guixiang, and Zhang Liyang engaged in in-depth dialogues on medical understanding, psychological support, and educational practices for autism. The event culminated in a collaborative performance titled Be Your Own Light by student volunteers from the Pan Su Honors Psychology Program and children undergoing autism rehabilitation.

Through academic discussions, artistic showcases, and social advocacy, the event deepened public understanding of autism communities and established a bridge for collaboration among governments, universities, medical institutions, special education schools, and social organizations. Moving forward, the School of Psychology at Capital Normal University will continue leveraging its disciplinary strengths to advance research and community services in the field of autism.