Overview

• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. described autism as a preventable disease, falsely claiming most autistic individuals cannot contribute to society, sparking widespread criticism.
• Dani Bowman, an autistic advocate and star of 'Love on the Spectrum,' highlighted her achievements, including holding a job, paying taxes, and earning a master’s degree, to counter RFK Jr.'s remarks.
• James B. Jones, also from 'Love on the Spectrum,' called Kennedy's comments ignorant and offensive, emphasizing the diversity of autistic experiences and societal progress in understanding autism.
• The Autism Society of America and leading experts criticized RFK Jr.'s rhetoric, noting that only 25% of autistic individuals face severe limitations and that rising diagnoses reflect improved screening, not environmental toxins.
• Advocates stress the importance of support and inclusion for autistic individuals, rejecting Kennedy's implication that autism should be 'cured' or eradicated.