Statement on Recent Comments by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

This week, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made a series of public comments about autism that were scientifically unfounded, deeply stigmatizing, and harmful to everyone in our autism community.

The Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) unequivocally rejects Secretary Kennedy’s characterization of autism as a “preventable disease” caused by environmental toxins, and his framing of autistic people as burdens to their families and society. Autism is not a disease. It is not an epidemic. It is not a tragedy.

Autism is a complex, lifelong neurodevelopmental disability shaped by genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Referring to autism as something to be eradicated is not only scientifically inaccurate—it is dangerous. It dehumanizes autistic people and fuels stigma that contributes to discrimination, systemic neglect, and even violence against people with disabilities.

When Secretary Kennedy says, “These are kids who will never write a poem… never use a toilet unassisted,” he denies the diversity, dignity, and value of the autistic community. Autistic people do write poems. They do fall in love, pay taxes, build careers, and contribute meaningfully to society. Others may need lifelong support, but are no less worthy of joy, autonomy, or belonging. To imply otherwise is to erase the humanity of millions.

In light of newly released CDC data estimating autism prevalence at 1 in 31 eight-year-olds nationally—and 1 in 28 in Minnesota—it is critical that media, policymakers, and the public understand that these numbers reflect progress in identification, not a cause for panic. Increases in prevalence rates are linked to improved awareness, more inclusive diagnostic criteria, and expanded access to evaluation, especially in historically underserved communities.

As our Executive Director, Ellie Wilson, shared at the 30th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference just this week:

“As we gather here this week, we know there are powers that be in our country who are spewing dangerously ignorant, harmful, and insulting rhetoric about us—about our beloveds. It’s ableist, and it’s wrong. The truth is: Autistic people are—individually and collectively—worthy and important. They deserve safety, dignity, support, and joy.”

AuSM stands with the Autism Society of America and our national partners in calling for public health policy rooted in rigorous, peer-reviewed science. The persistent promotion of long-debunked theories—such as the false link between vaccines and autism—undermines public trust, diverts resources, and places real lives at risk.

We also express deep concern about proposed HHS restructurings and budget cuts that threaten the Administration for Community Living, Medicaid, and the civil rights of students with disabilities. These policies, paired with inflammatory rhetoric, paint a disturbing picture of the erosion of the civil rights of people with disabilities.

We call on leaders across all levels of government to:

• Stop using ableist, alarmist, and dehumanizing language.
• Invest in evidence-based research that centers autistic voices.
• Prioritize access to early diagnosis, inclusive education, and community-based services.
• Safeguard the rights and futures of all disabled Americans.

Autism is not a problem to be solved, it is a disability. Like all people with disabilities, the Autism community deserves to be supported and included. And we will continue to defend ourselves from hate —fiercely, proudly, and with love.