Autism Needs Understanding, Not Misinformation

Author and Autism activist Kim Stagliano famously said that “autism is not a tragedy. Ignorance is a tragedy.” These words ring particularly true in light of recent comments by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  Kennedy caused controversy last week when he described autism as an epidemic, claiming children with autism “will never pay taxes, hold a job, go on a date,” and that many would “never use a toilet unassisted.” 

He further stated that autism “destroys families” and pledged to identify its environmental causes by September.

Kennedy’s comments not only miss the mark, but also risk perpetuating harmful myths about autism. Instead of endeavoring to have an understanding of the realities of living with autism, Kennedy creates stigma by painting people with autism with the broadest of brushes, presuming autism is a hindrance as opposed to strength. Instead of celebrating the rich diversity of skills, perspectives, and talents that exist on all ends of the autism spectrum, he chooses fearmongering and falsehoods.

Kennedy is correct that many people with autism face profound struggles, as do their caregivers. They are forced to navigate systems like education and healthcare that are under-resourced and not prepared for complex needs. Frustration and chronic stress among caregivers is prevalent. None of this means that we need a “cure” for autism, it means we need better systemic assistance for those receiving and giving care.

As self-advocate and author Dr. Stephen Shore famously said, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.”  Kennedy’s remarks ignore a foundational truth: autism is a spectrum. No two autistic people are alike. While some require continuous support, others thrive independently—and many fall somewhere in between. All of them are valid. 

The truth is that people with autism are our neighbors, friends, and coworkers. Some are highly skilled, and some need extensive support. Regardless, they are all human beings, worthy of all the things everyone else is: dignity, love, and respect. 

The harm of Kennedy’s remarks is amplified by their timing. April is Autism Acceptance Month—a time meant not for fear, but for celebration of neurodiversity. Rather than focusing solely on awareness, acceptance emphasizes respect, empowerment, and full participation of autistic people in all aspects of society. It’s a time to elevate autistic voices, challenge stereotypes, and promote policies and practices that support dignity, self-determination, and equal opportunity.

Acceptance shifts the narrative from “fixing” or “curing” autism to recognizing it as a natural variation of the human experience. When society embraces neurodiversity, we open the door to more empathetic relationships, richer creativity, and systems that work better for everyone—not just those who fit a narrow definition of “normal.”

Misinformation can shape public opinion, influence policy, and directly impact funding and services. It’s crucial that those in power speak responsibly and prioritize facts over fear. Autism does not destroy families—ignorance, underfunded systems, and stigma do. It’s time we chose empathy over fear, and acceptance over marginalization.