SPRINGFIELD-On April 16, during his inaugural speech as secretary of health and human services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made deeply concerning and misleading statements about people with autism.
Contrary to Secretary Kennedy's claims, autism is not a tragedy, nor is it a disease or an epidemic.
These characterizations are not only inaccurate - they are harmful. They perpetuate outdated stereotypes that dismiss the strengths, dignity, and potential of millions of people on the autism spectrum.
At Health Care & Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), we recognize autism as a natural variation of the human experience. People with autism enrich our communities every day - as students, employees, artists, volunteers, friends, and family members. Their voices matter, and their contributions are vital.
We stand with individuals with autism, their families, and our colleagues across the field in rejecting fear-based narratives. Instead, we champion a vision of inclusion, understanding, and respect for all.
We invite our partners and the broader community to join us in promoting accurate, compassionate awareness - and to build a society where all people are celebrated for who they are.
Health Care and Rehabilitation Services
Springfield
George Karabakakis, Ph.D., chief executive officer//Jean Warner, director of developmental services
This letter to the editor was submitted to The Commons.
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