AWN Statement on Media Responsibility When Reporting About Autism and Violence

AWN is profoundly saddened by the recent violence in California and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected.

Unfortunately, this tragic incident has sparked troubling conversations in the media about Autism. Autism Women’s Network is deeply concerned by this misinformation and the irresponsible way in which the media would attempt to create a false correlation between Autism and violence.

There is absolutely no evidence linking violence and Autism. These thoughtless and false associations have real life consequences for Autistic people. It allows the dehumanization, stigmatization and discrimination to continue toward an already marginalized group. Statistically, Autistic and other Disabled individuals (including those with psychiatric disabilities) are much more likely to be victimized by violent crime than to be the perpetrators.

We must continue to hold the media accountable for carelessly spreading this type of fear-mongering. We as a community must persist in speaking out against this dangerous misinformation.