Position Statement from AANE

About the Author

Brenda Dater, MSW, MPH, is the executive director at AANE and the author of “Parenting Without Panic.” Brenda is a mom of three, and her eldest is an Autistic transgender woman. Brenda has facilitated parent support groups for over 20 years and thoroughly enjoys creating an environment where parents can find the support, information, and the community they need.

Threats to Disability-Focused Programs

Executive orders are directly impacting the rights, services, and resources available to disabled individuals and their families. The Trump administration is pursuing significant budget cuts to federal programs that directly support disabled individuals. Proposed reductions to Medicaid, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) threaten the financial and medical security of millions of people who currently receive these supports. 

AANE believes the reckless actions endangering vital federal supports will cause irreparable harm.

Upholding our Values of Inclusion

AANE recognizes that Autistic individuals exist at the intersection of multiple identities, including race, gender, sexual orientation, as well as immigration and socioeconomic status. Policies that weaken protections for marginalized groups, including transgender individuals and people of color, create additional barriers for members of the disability community who already face systemic discrimination. Executive orders targeting transgender rights threaten the safety and security of Autistic individuals who are also transgender or nonbinary. Transgender individuals are 3-6 times more likely to be Autistic. As policies shift at the federal level, AANE commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remains steadfast.

AANE stands in solidarity with all marginalized communities affected by policy changes and remains dedicated to fostering a society where all Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals have the opportunity to thrive.

False Claims Linking Vaccines and Autism

The appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services is particularly alarming for the Autistic community, given his promotion of misinformation about vaccines and autism. His rhetoric could further stigmatize Autistic individuals and contribute to harmful narratives that impact public perception and policy, and threaten public health and safety.

AANE believes the unsubstantiated claims that vaccines cause autism are detrimental to the Autistic community and dangerous for public health.

Managing Misinformation and Navigating Uncertainty

In today’s fast-paced political climate, information and disinformation spreads rapidly, making it difficult to discern fact from fiction. Social media and partisan news sources often amplify misleading narratives, which can cause confusion and anxiety within the disability community. 

The rapid pace of policy changes, including executive orders, can create uncertainty and distress. Even when courts overturn harmful policies, the initial damage is often already done: resources may be lost, services disrupted, and fear instilled within affected communities.

It’s important to manage this uncertainty by focusing on community support, self-advocacy, and resilience-building. Seeking guidance from trusted advocacy and nonprofit organizations, engaging in self-care practices, and participation in grassroots efforts can help mitigate stress and empower individuals and families to navigate these changes.

AANE believes it is crucial to turn to reputable sources, such as disability advocacy organizations to stay informed, find community, and focus efforts.

The Role of Advocacy and Community Action

Despite these challenges, one thing remains clear: advocacy plays a crucial role in shaping the policies that affect the autism community. When policymakers hear directly from individuals with lived experience, they are more likely to prioritize disability rights in their decisions. We encourage our community members to stay informed, engage with their elected representatives, and participate in advocacy efforts that promote inclusion and equity. 

AANE is committed to ensuring that Autistic voices are heard. We continue to work with other disability advocacy organizations to protect and expand access to services. 

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If you want to learn more about how you can get involved, whether through advocacy or volunteering, please contact us or visit our Sources for Information and Advocacy Resources Page. Together, we can ensure that every individual in our community has the support and opportunity they deserve.