About this workshop

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (United States Secretary of Health and Human Services), directed the CDC to change its language on vaccines and autism. From the clear statement “Vaccines do not cause autism” to a misleading claim suggesting that studies have not ruled out a link and that evidence has been ignored. This shift isn’t just semantics; it legitimises a dangerous myth that has fuelled decades of harm against Autistic people.

Equally alarming is the resurgence of Andrew Wakefield, the former doctor who fabricated research to falsely link vaccines to autism. A fraud so severe that he was struck off the medical register. Today, Wakefield is not a cautionary tale but part of RFK’s inner circle, influencing narratives that reach millions. These developments show how quickly discredited ideas can return, dressed in new authority, and why understanding their origins is critical.

Conversations about autism are not just academic: they’re political, cultural, and deeply personal. The persistence of “cure” narratives isn’t a relic of the past; it’s resurfacing in powerful ways that shape public policy and influence health decisions. This workshop matters because these narratives are gaining traction at the highest levels.

This workshop will unpack the history of autism causes and “cures”: from vaccine conspiracies to harmful treatments. By understanding their origins and impact, we can challenge misinformation, advocate for ethical practice, and protect Autistic voices in a world that is experiencing a resurgence with “fixing” what was never broken.

What you will gain

• Clarity on why cure-focused thinking is harmful: keeping the focus on fixing Autistics instead of supporting them

• Insight into false cause narratives (vaccines, parenting, toxins, trauma) and the treatments they inspired.

• Historical and current examples of harmful practices, including ABA, restrictive diets, and holding therapy.

Trigger warning

This workshop discusses harmful narratives around autism, including so-called “cures,” coercive treatments, distressing practices, and misinformation about causes.