Love on the Spectrum star James B. Jones responded to "extremely ignorant" and "downright offensive" comments from Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

During a press briefing on Wednesday, Kennedy described autism as a "tragedy" that "destroys children."

"These are kids who will never pay taxes, they'll never hold a job, they'll never play baseball, they'll never write a poem, they'll never go out on a date," Kennedy claimed.

In a thoughtful rebuttal on TikTok, Jones described his former experiences of being insulted or ignored by people who lacked understanding of conditions like autism, and cautioned against losing the progress society has made with increased awareness of neurodivergence.

@jamesbjones.offical Recently, Robert F. Kennedy jr. made several comments about people who have autism or similar conditions that I found to be very offensive #jamesbjones #jamesbjones87 #confide #comedyvideo #tellingstory #loveonthespectrum #politics #discuss #president #truth #james #podcastclips #news #new #podcasts #podcast #couple #presidentialelection #presidential #JamesBJones ♬ original sound - James B

With effort and the help of teachers, his parents, and other advocates, Jones says he is "doing quite well." He works a full time job with benefits, has a romantic relationship, friendships, is responsible for his own expenses, and owns and drives a car.

"I am a fully functional productive member of society," Jones emphasized. "And yes, I have autism. I am neurodiverse."

Jones' lived experience—and that of millions of other neurodivergent people—directly contradicts Kennedy's assertion that people with autism will never contribute meaningfully to society.

"I do not appreciate Mr. Kennedy speaking of autism in such a negative manner because society has made great progress in the past 20 to 30 years," Jones continued. "We do not wish to step backward. We wish to keep moving forward."

Kennedy has yet to respond to the growing backlash.

Originally published on Latin Times