Statement from the Commonwealth Disabled Peoples Forum (CDPF)
On President Trump’s Recent Autism Announcement
The Commonwealth Disabled Peoples Forum expresses deep concern over the recent announcement by President Donald Trump, in which he claimed to have found the “cause” of autism, specifically linking autism to the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy, and reviving discredited claims about vaccines. This announcement directly contradicts decades of scientific evidence and the consensus of the global medical and autistic advocacy communities.
Upholding Science and Respect for Autistic People
Autistic advocacy organisations worldwide, including the National Autistic Society (UK), Autistic Self Advocacy Network (USA), and Autism Queensland (Australia) have condemned the announcement as dangerous, anti-science, and stigmatising. Large-scale studies have repeatedly shown there is no robust, credible evidence linking painkillers or vaccines to autism. False claims risk undermining trust in research, public health, and essential supports for autistic people.
Autism is a lifelong neurodivergence, a disability that shapes how people experience and interact with the world. Autistic people deserve respect, accurate information, and effective supports, not blame or fearmongering.
Our Position
· CDPF affirms that autism is understood to be caused by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, not by a single medication or vaccine.
· There is no “cure” for autism, nor should there be, our advocacy aligns with the view that autism is a difference, not a disadvantage.
· Announcements that falsely “blame” mothers or sow doubt about the safety of routine medication and immunisation are irresponsible. They perpetuate stigma, create fear, and harm entire communities.
· We call upon governments and health agencies across the Commonwealth to stand by autistic people, to firmly rebut disinformation, and to promote messages grounded in trust, science, and inclusion.
Commitment to Disability-Inclusive Communication
In line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and best practice guidelines for disability-inclusive communications, CDPF urges all actors, including governments and media to:
· Use respectful and accurate language about autism, avoiding outdated and demeaning terms.
· Ensure autistic people and advocacy organisations have a central role in policy decisions and public communications.
· Reject unproven medical claims and prioritise evidence-based practices that support autonomy, health, and quality of life for autistic people.
Global Solidarity
Autistic-led organisations worldwide continue to challenge stigma, advance acceptance, and campaign for policies that protect rights and dignity. CDPF stands in solidarity with these groups and their calls for honesty, science, and respect for autistic people everywhere.
Press Contacts
Emile Gouws CDPF Executive South Africa mieliemeel93@gmail.com
Clare Gibellini CDPF Executive Australia claregib@hotmail.com
Richard Rieser CDPF General Secretary rlrieser@gmail.com