1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s comments about autism are highly problematic and offensive. His claim that autistic individuals "will never pay taxes," "never hold a job," or "never write a poem" is blatantly false and dehumanizing. Countless autistic people lead fulfilling lives, work, create art, and contribute to society in myriad ways. To assert their lives are devoid of meaning or value is extremely ableist. Furthermore, Kennedy's remarks propagate the misguided and unethical notion that autism must be prevented or eliminated at all costs. This reeks of the same pseudoscientific, eugenicist thinking that has historically oppressed and dehumanized disabled people. Autism is a natural part of human neurodiversity, not an "epidemic" to be eradicated. As the leader of the Department of Health and Human Services, Kennedy's prejudiced views put the rights and wellbeing of the autistic community at risk. His words sow fear, stigma, and harm rather than promoting understanding, inclusion, and equal opportunities for autistic individuals to thrive. For these reasons, I believe Kennedy should resign from his position. The autistic community deserves leadership that respects their humanity, not espouses offensive biases rooted in ableism and pseudoscience.