The author criticizes Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for portraying autism negatively, asserting that it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and ignores the humanity of autistic individuals. It highlights the struggle of living with autism while also thriving in personal and professional life. The author shares personal experiences of supporting autistic individuals, illustrating their potential when given understanding and appropriate tools. The commentary emphasizes the importance of celebrating autistic lives rather than viewing them as burdens, cautioning against fear-based rhetoric that harms families and communities.
Kennedy's rhetoric doesn't just misunderstand autism - it crosses off the humanity of autistic people.
It reduces us to burdens or symptoms instead of recognizing us as whole people.
It fuels fear in parents, shame in kids and hopelessness in communities.
Even if I didn't have those things, I would still be valuable and worthy.
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