Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s recent announcement of a project to track the health of individuals with autism has sparked shock and anger among the autistic community and their allies. As the leader of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Kennedy’s controversial actions, including pushing out regulatory officials, spreading misinformation about autism, and proposing to end support services for disabled individuals, have raised concerns about his approach to autism spectrum disorder.

Advocates argue that Kennedy’s views are not aligned with scientific evidence or public understanding of autism, and they fear the potential impact on healthcare in the US under his leadership. Individuals like Seth Taylor, an autism advocate, emphasize the importance of engaging with autistic individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and needs.

Critics point out that Kennedy’s rhetoric perpetuates stigma around autism and distracts from addressing the real needs of autistic individuals, such as access to services, support, and accommodations in various settings. The creation of a database to track autistic individuals has raised privacy and ethical concerns, with some individuals opting out of seeking a diagnosis to avoid being part of the registry.

Personal stories shared in the article highlight the diverse experiences of individuals diagnosed with autism later in life and the challenges they face in accessing support and understanding. The article underscores the importance of promoting neurodiversity, providing appropriate support services, and fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with autism.