I am a parent of an autistic child and I find this recent proposal for a National Autism Registry deeply disturbing. This goes beyond any political debates, it's about preserving human rights, dignity, and freedom. It's chilling reminders like these that show how history has turned disastrous when certain groups have been targeted and monitored.

Advocates, parents, allies, and individuals from all walks of life are urged to join in opposing the prospective establishment of a registry that would intrude on the private medical, developmental, and educational information of autistic children. This proposal stands against the privacy rights guarded under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Moreover, it has the potential to undermine protections for disabled individuals secured under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The surveillance and targeting of any vulnerable communities should never be an option. It's not just an infringement of privacy, but it's also a significant assault on the autonomy and respect these children and their families deserve. Approximately 1 in 31 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This number represents a considerable portion of our population whose rights we must uphold.

This call is not just about a registry. It's about safeguarding human rights, ensuring the respect and privacy of our children, and preventing a misuse of power that could set a precedent with irreversible consequences. It's time to stand united against this proposal. Please sign this petition in defence of the rights of autistic children and their families.