Valedictorian With Nonspeaking Autism Delivers Moving Graduation Speech, 'God Gave You a Voice. Use It'

Louise Chambers : Jun 10, 2022
The Epoch Times

[TheEpochTimes.com] Rollins College student Elizabeth Bonker lost her ability to speak at 15 months of age, and is profoundly affected by autism. For her commencement address that was delivered to her graduating class of 529 students on May 8, she used text-to-speech computer software, typing independently with one finger as a communication partner held a keyboard ... "I am one of the lucky few nonspeaking autistics who have been taught to type," Elizabeth, who earned a degree in social innovation, told the gathered crowd. "That one critical intervention unlocked my mind from its silent cage, enabling me to communicate and to be educated, like my hero Helen Keller ... God gave you a voice. Use it," she urged the crowd, quipping, "and no, the irony of a nonspeaking autistic encouraging you to use your voice is not lost on me"... Subscribe for free to Breaking Christian News here Click here to read and watch the viral video of Elizabeth's speech. (Screengrab image)