Autism Organizations Join the Autistic Community In Speaking Out

In a bold and unprecedented move, autism organizations that have historically disagreed have united to issue a joint statement against RFK's recent comments about autistic individuals. This powerful show of solidarity underscores the commitment of the autism community to combat harmful narratives and promote respect and understanding. By coming together, these organizations are making it clear that accurate representation and support for autistic people are non-negotiable.

Autistic Women's Alliance Joins The Fight

National Organizations on April 17th such as Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, The Arc of the United States, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Autistic People of Color Fund, and partners across the disability and health sectors all stood united in calling for evidence based research and investments in diverse supports for the Autism Community.

While all organizations reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences, we are aligned in the following principles:

Vaccines Do Not Cause Autism. Decades of scientific research confirm there is no causal link. Public health messaging must be grounded in science and protect all communities.

Autistic Individuals Deserve Respect and Support. Public dialogue and policy must reflect the inherent value, rights, and diverse needs of Autistic people.

Evidence-Based Policy Is Essential. We call on policymakers to work in collaboration with Autistic individuals, families, researchers, clinicians, and disability organizations to ensure policy is grounded in science and responsive to community needs.

We are deeply concerned by recent rhetoric and policy decisions that challenge the above principles that claim that Autism is "preventable" isn't supported by scientific consensus and spreads stigma.

Autism is NOT A DISEASE! Using this framing as a "chronic" or "childhood" disease distorts the public's understanding and undermines support for all autistic people.

We are aware that there are federal proposals to reduce funding for programs like Medicaid, the Department of Education, and the Administration for Community Living threaten the very services that Autistic individuals and their families rely on. Research should always be guided by credentialed experts and includes the complexity and diversity of the lived experiences of all Autistics, and not fueled or directed by misinformation or ideology.

We encourage open and honest dialogue within and outside of the neurodivergent community to uphold scientific integrity so we can all work together to help support Autistic individuals.

For the original announcement and list of signed organizations, please visit Autism Society's page:

Leading Autism Organizations Release Joint Statement on Upholding Scientific Integrity and Supporting the Autism Community

Thank you!

Autistic Women's Alliance Team