Speaking out: RFK Jr's statements

I met a child who I knew was autistic when I was a 17 years old camp counselor. The child was 8 years old. He fit the stereotypical autism we see and hear about in movies. He jumped up and down, almost constantly given the calouses on his knuckles that hit the ground with each jump. He was minimally verbal and absolutely loved swimming more than anyone I had ever met.

He taught me more than I had every learned in school or life before that weekend. His intensity and skill of being in the moment was stunningly beautiful, inspiring, and exhilarating.

Since then, every autistic individual I have met (and we are talking thousands at this point 35+ years later), has been a unique and incredible gift to our world.

I'd like for each of you to imagine a world where the Director of Health and Human Services had said "autism is on the rise and we need to recognize, appreciate, and support humans in our country who experience it. We need people to stand up and appreciate the fact that we are now identifying 1 in 31 people in our midst who are autistic. We MUST ramp up not research on a cure but research into what matters most to support and include neurodiversity in our country." I'm enjoying this. Let me go on.... "Instead of shaming, blaming, or spreading dangerous misinformation, let's get to work in supporting families when they first recognize differences to understand and feel empowered. Let's get to work to support individuals when they are later diagnosed, to alleviate their challenges and support them to secure employment that utilizes their unique strengths and ensures they feel included."

I do not think RFK Jr's statements are "irresponsible." I think they are dangerous. He has NO idea what he is talking about. The research has been done on vaccines. They do not cause autism. And if his rhetoric about autistics not contributing to society spreads.... we are looking at severe cuts to medicaid which funds everything from supports in schools to homes, communities, and more. DO NOT LISTEN TO HIS MISINFORMATION. Autism is a natural human difference no matter the severity of symptoms. I work with families every day. I work with autistic individuals every day. We are talking about humans who teach us the beauty and solace in nature, of being in the moment, of living life free of societal bull sh*t. We are talking about humans who help us see logic over irrational emotional reactions, the beauty of silence over idle chit-chat, and the importance of giving others time and space to process. WE NEED AUTISM AND BE OPEN TO LEARN, UNDERSTAND, AND VALUE BY THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN OUR WORLD.

"Claims that Autism is solely caused by environmental exposures, parenting styles, or vaccines not only lack scientific evidence but are incredibly irresponsible. “These misleading theories perpetuate harmful stigma, jeopardize public health, and distract from the critical needs of the Autism community including — access to quality care, early intervention, adult services, inclusive education, and long-term supports,” stated Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America.