In recent weeks, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been subjected to some very nasty vitriol from the autism community. His repeated assertions that autism is an “epidemic” that ”destroys families” have caused alarm, outrage and panic. His comments have spurred a passionate discussion on what autism should mean, both for individuals affected by the diagnosis and our society as a whole. Activists point out that autism is a neurological difference, not an illness to be cured. Their call to action is to increase support and services for autistic individuals and their families.
Kennedy’s words resonate now more than ever as the incidence rate of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) continues to increase. In Canada, as many as one in every 50 children between the ages of one and 17 is currently diagnosed with autism. Technically, males are diagnosed about four times as often as females. Most notably, experts have criticized Kennedy’s assertion. The advocacy group Autistic Self Advocacy Network has expressed their skepticism that the U.S. will be able to fully pinpoint the cause of autism by this September.
The Reality of Autism
It’s important to keep in mind that autism is not something to prevent or eradicate. It is caused, in fact, by a complicated mix of genetic and environmental influences. U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) has identified many potential risk factors for autism. These risk factors include prenatal exposure to pesticides, air pollution, extreme prematurity, and a tapestry of maternal health issues.
Katherine L’Etang, an autistic mother of two autistic children, speaks out against Kennedy’s comments, stating, “Autism does not destroy families…. Lack of support and services does.” She emphasizes the need for better understanding and acceptance of autism rather than perpetuating negative narratives that label it as a tragedy.
The neurodiversity movement has long championed the notion that autism is simply a naturally occurring divergence of human experience. It promotes acceptance rather than treating it as a condition that should be removed from existence. If realized, advocates argue, autistic individuals can make great contributions to society. They underscore, again, that these folks could be gainfully employed, paying taxes, and establishing lasting companionships.
Misinformation and Its Consequences
Misinformation on autism—especially about vaccines—has been unstoppable on social media. Kennedy’s comments have only further added to the misinformation surrounding the capabilities of autistic individuals, promoting damaging stereotypes and stigma. Julie M. Green, an autistic adult and parent, highlights the dangers of such narratives: “As an autistic adult and a parent to a young autistic person, the current narrative terrifies me.”
Green further explains the implications of Kennedy’s rhetoric, stating, “At best they are misinformed and think they are helping; at worst, they’re looking to eliminate autism, which… is akin to eliminating autistic people from existing.” This viewpoint highlights the need for more knowledgeable conversations about autism and the realities of living with autism.
Many advocates are rightfully afraid that stories such as Kennedy’s might push our civil culture in the direction of more supremacy- and eugenics-friendly perspectives. Painting the autism community as a societal burden is damaging on all fronts. It alters caregiver relationships and impacts the way communities view black families with young children.
A Call for Understanding
Most autism advocates view Kennedy’s claims as a big step backwards. They think it slows down progress toward the eventual widespread acceptance and support of autistic people. L’Etang states, “We for so long have been asking to be adequately supported and accepted,” adding that equating autism with tragedy undermines the experiences of countless families.
The broader message from advocates is clear: autistic lives matter regardless of their ability to conform to societal expectations of productivity or normalcy. “Their lives are worthy regardless of how much support they need,” L’Etang asserts.
Kennedy’s public comments serve to further misrepresent the reality of autism while simultaneously misguiding the public perception. The autism community is asking for a kinder and broader view that accepts neurodiversity. They want to focus on support, rather than stigma and punishment.
