Autistic Self Advocacy Network

The Trump administration's recent actions, including shifting special education oversight to the Department of Health and Human Services under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and lowering barriers for institutionalizing people with disabilities, have drawn criticism from advocates. These moves are seen as a potential regression to institutionalizing individuals with disabilities, contradicting decades of progress toward community integration and inclusive education.

The Trump administration's recent actions, including shifting special education oversight to the Health and Human Services Department led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the Department of Justice lowering barriers to institutionalizing people with disabilities, have raised concerns among advocates. Critics argue these moves signal a return to the 'medical model' of disability, which views disabilities as defects rather than differences requiring accommodation.

The Trump administration's actions, including shifting special education oversight to the Department of Health and Human Services under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and lowering barriers to institutionalizing people with disabilities, have raised concerns among advocates about a regression toward marginalizing disabled individuals. Critics argue these moves align with a 'medical model' of disability, contradicting decades of progress toward inclusive education and community living.