Confronting Ableism in RFK's Rhetoric

We at ARISE are deeply alarmed and disheartened by recent statements made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which describe autism as a “tragedy” and paint autistic people in dehumanizing and reductive terms. To claim that autistic people will “never pay taxes,” “never hold a job,” or “never go out on a date” is not only factually incorrect, it is profoundly harmful.

This kind of rhetoric perpetuates ableist stereotypes that have long marginalized autistic people and others with disabilities. It frames neurodivergence as a catastrophic deviation rather than a natural and enduring part of the human experience. Autism is not an epidemic. It is not something to be feared or eradicated. Autistic people are not broken. They are whole human beings who contribute to our communities in countless, meaningful ways.

To characterize autistic lives as devoid of value or potential is not just inaccurate, it strips people of their dignity, humanity, and rights. Autistic people are artists, athletes, parents, scientists, employees, taxpayers, partners, and friends. They write poems. They play baseball. They go on dates. They dream, create, advocate, and thrive. And they deserve to be seen not through the lens of deficit or despair, but with respect and affirmation for who they are.

While many autistic people can be partners, scientists, athletes etc, we refuse to leave those of us who aren’t behind. Autistic adults with higher support needs, who are nonverbal, who need assistance with daily living are insightful, funny, kind, and cherished community members, who lead lives of value and meaning. We do not need to have jobs or romantic relationships to be worthy of the care and support we need. We are all here now, and are not disposable.

Being neurodivergent does not mean someone is inherently limited, it means that society must be willing to shift its norms, create inclusive environments, and provide meaningful support. The challenges autistic people face are often not the result of their neurology, but of a world that fails to understand and accommodate their needs.

Rather than invest energy into pathologizing differences, we must build systems of care, access, and inclusion that empower all people, autistic and otherwise, to lead self-directed, fulfilling lives. Disability justice demands that we move beyond pity and stigma. It calls us to recognize the value of every life, to celebrate diversity in all its forms, and to listen, truly listen, to the voices of those who have long been spoken over.

We call on all public figures and policymakers to do better. To center facts over fear. To uplift rather than diminish. And to work alongside the disability community to build a more just, equitable, and compassionate world.

Use the links below to find your elected representatives and tell them the importance of challenging ableist language and uplifting the voices of the disability community.

• Buffalo Common Council

• Erie County Legislators

• New York State Assembly Members

• New York State Senators