Published date:
I have listened carefully to President Trump’s recent announcement on autism. Let me be unequivocal - he has provided no evidence whatsoever that paracetamol causes autism.
What President Trump did offer instead was uncertainty. He could not stand over much of what he said and admitted himself, “I’m not so careful about what I say.” That much was obvious. His announcement was littered with inflammatory and offensive language that I will not repeat.
This rhetoric from the White House is dangerous. It fuels stigma. It places blame and guilt not only on families, but autistic people themselves. And it distracts from what autistic people actually need – our understanding, support and respect.
We must not allow such harmful misinformation to seep into Northern Ireland unchallenged.
Autism is a natural variation of human neurology. The cause of autism may not be known, but we do not need to know the cause to be certain of this - Northern Ireland’s autistic population belong, their voices matter, and their dignity must always be respected and protected.
I have previously written to Ministers and MLAs asking them to stand publicly with autistic people and to endorse this vision:
“A Northern Ireland where autistic people of all ages know they belong, feel valued, and are supported to be their whole authentic selves.”
At this pivotal moment, I call again for that public commitment. Anything less leaves space for misinformation and false narratives to take hold.
Responsibility belongs to all of us. I urge our leaders to act bravely and collectively by challenging false information and lead us towards a Northern Ireland where autistic people know they belong.