RFK Jr.’s Controversial Claims About Autism: What the Community is Saying and Why It Matters | CNN

Alison Singer wants to bridge a gap between her loved ones and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Singer’s brother and daughter are part of the millions living with autism in the U.S. They, like many others, have felt disrespected by the description put forth by Kennedy, who now heads the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Singer, president of the Autism Science Foundation, explained, “He clearly doesn’t understand either one of them.” Her daughter works on a farm that cares for animals and produces crops, while her brother supports seniors by delivering meals. Both are active, caring members of their community and family.

Kennedy recently claimed that autism represents an “individual tragedy” and is “catastrophic for our country” during his first press conference. In his view, these statements describe individuals as if their lives lack value. This starkly contrasts with the lived experiences of many, like Singer’s family.

Recent statistics show that autism rates among 8-year-olds in the U.S. have risen from 1 in 36 in 2020 to 1 in 31 in 2022. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points out that this increase likely stems from better awareness and screening rather than an actual rise in cases. However, Kennedy rejects this idea, framing autism as a “preventable” epidemic.

Dr. Peter Hotez, a vaccine researcher and father to an adult daughter with autism, responded to Kennedy’s comments on social media. He emphasized that his daughter has a rich life, filled with work, friendships, and hobbies. His frustration mirrors a broader sentiment in the autism community, which strongly contests Kennedy’s harmful stereotype.

Zoe Gross from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network notes that Kennedy’s comments threaten to roll back years of progress in combating stigma surrounding autism. “He set up a litmus test of what it means to have a valuable life,” Gross said, reminding us that varied experiences and contributions among individuals with autism matter.

Many companies employ people with autism. For example, Aspiritech, a tech firm, highlighted how over 90% of their team consists of autistic employees, further debunking Kennedy’s perspective. They invited him to learn about their workforce’s capabilities and emphasize that autism is a vital part of many individuals’ identities.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes various neurodevelopmental conditions, leading individuals to communicate and interact differently. The CDC states that the spectrum is broad, with abilities varying significantly among individuals.

Dr. Lisa Settles, who has extensive experience in autism research, echoes the need for changes in how we view autism. She reminds us that outdated terms like “severe” can be damaging and misleading. “It’s short-changing the individuals with autism and their families,” she asserted.

Critics argue that focusing solely on potential causes for autism — particularly blaming environmental factors — draws attention away from contemporary research opportunities. Meanwhile, autism advocates stress the importance of building support systems for those on the spectrum rather than pushing narrow narratives.

As Singer said, “This is the most exciting time in research.” She worries that the drive towards vaccine research detracts from more pressing needs. The autism community advocates for respect and understanding for those who require additional support, emphasizing that every person’s experience is worthy.

Autistic individuals, regardless of their abilities, deserve to live fulfilling lives. Respecting their contributions and seeing their value is crucial to advancing how we understand and support autism today.

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