Leading Autism and disability organizations — including Family Voices, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, The Arc, and other partners across the disability and public health sectors — stand united in our call for science-based decision-making and increased investment in the research, programs and services the Autism community needs to live fully.
This unified message affirms key principles that we collectively support:
- Vaccines do not cause Autism. Decades of scientific research have confirmed this. Public health messaging must reflect scientific consensus and protect all communities.
- Autistic individuals deserve dignity, respect, and meaningful support. Language and policy must reflect the full humanity and diversity of the Autism community.
- Evidence-based policy must guide our work. Collaboration with Autistic people, families, researchers, clinicians, and advocates is essential to ensure responsive, effective support systems.
We are increasingly concerned by misinformation, stigma, and funding threats that undermine these principles—from mischaracterizing Autism as an “epidemic” or “chronic disease,” to policy proposals that weaken crucial supports like threats to Medicaid, HHS, ACL, and the Department of Education.
We call on public leaders, institutions, and media to honor scientific integrity and invest in research, services, and supports that reflect the diverse needs of the Autism community.
You can read the full joint statement here: Leading Autism Organizations Release Joint Statement on Upholding Scientific Integrity and Supporting the Autism Community | Autism Society
If your organization would like to endorse this statement or collaborate further, we welcome your partnership.
Sincerely,
Family Voices
Encourage confidence to act