The recent mass layoffs initiated by the U.S. government, which have affected USAID employees globally, are causing devastating consequences for families with children who have autism and other disabilities. These layoffs are not merely bureaucratic—they are a humanitarian crisis, threatening the financial stability, therapy services, and overall well-being of some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

The Devastating Impact on Families

For children with autism, consistency in therapy is critical. Losing access to established therapy services due to a parent’s job loss disrupts years of progress and puts their development and well-being at significant risk. These layoffs have left families scrambling to cope with the loss of income, healthcare benefits, and critical support systems—pushing them into a state of uncertainty and distress.

This is not just a financial or logistical issue; it is a violation of the fundamental rights of children with disabilities. It undermines decades of progress the U.S. has made in disability advocacy and equal rights.

Violations of U.S. Disability Rights Laws

The layoffs contradict key U.S. laws designed to protect individuals with disabilities, including:

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (1990): Prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. By destabilizing families of children with disabilities, these layoffs indirectly harm their ability to access medically necessary services.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1975): Guarantees children with disabilities access to specialized services. The loss of parental employment and healthcare puts these critical services out of reach for many families.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504): Mandates that programs receiving federal funding cannot discriminate against individuals with disabilities. These layoffs effectively undermine this law by leaving families of disabled children without resources or support.

The U.S. has long been a global leader in disability rights, but these actions undermine those principles. For families impacted by these layoffs, the message is clear: their needs are not a priority.

Our Demand

We call on the U.S. government to immediately address the devastating impact of these layoffs on USAID employees and their families. Specifically, we demand:

1. A reversal of the layoffs destabilizing families of children with disabilities.
2. Protections for USAID employees with dependents requiring critical therapy services.
3. Financial and healthcare support for affected families to prevent irreversible harm to their children.
These layoffs directly conflict with the humanitarian values the U.S. government and USAID claim to uphold. Families with children who have disabilities deserve protection, stability, and access to the essential services that allow their children to thrive.

Sign This Petition to Demand Justice

Families of USAID employees, disability rights advocates, and concerned citizens worldwide—it is time to unite and demand change. These layoffs represent a profound failure to protect vulnerable families. Together, we can urge the Trump administration, Congress, and decision-makers to act swiftly and compassionately.

Add your voice today—demand the U.S. government take immediate action to reverse these layoffs and protect families of children with disabilities.