Anti-Vaccine Protest Supports RFK Jr. Outside CDC in Atlanta

On Friday morning, around 20 anti-vaccine activists gathered before the Atlanta CDC headquarters to show support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., organized by the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense. The rally coincided with a challenging week for Kennedy, who held a controversial press conference blaming the over-the-counter painkiller Tylenol for an alleged autism epidemic, alongside Donald Trump.

The chosen location was symbolic: in front of a CVS pharmacy where a shooter recently killed police officer David Rose and blamed COVID vaccines for his mental health issues. The shooter, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot, had targeted CDC headquarters.

Participants carried various signs, from straightforward messages like “Make America Healthy Again” and “Thank You, RFK Jr.”, to more unusual ones. One read “I am Charlie Kirk,” referencing the conservative activist, while others cited bible verses or declared “Anti-Science, Pro-Informed Consent.”

Two women holding signs outside CDC headquarters — Attendees outside the CDC headquarters in Atlanta on September 26. Signs included messages like “We (heart) RFK, Jr.” and “We Know What Causes Autism.”

Several attendees shared personal stories. Christy Kennedy, an occupational therapist from Decatur, Georgia, expressed her concern about the politicization of vaccine safety and stated she advocates for children needing non-pharmaceutical interventions. Mike Arnold, another protester, detailed how his beliefs evolved from broad conspiracy theories about 9/11 and the federal reserve to anti-vaccine sentiments, influenced by internet forums and a distrust of mainstream narratives.

The crowd largely supported Kennedy’s stance against vaccine safety, with many endorsing unproven claims, such as the belief that Tylenol can cause autism. Some speakers emphasized natural health approaches, advocating for pregnant women to avoid pharmaceuticals and focus on natural foods.

Signs reading "Make America Healthy Again" and "We Know What Causes Autism" outside CDC — Protesters oppose vaccines and advocate for natural health outside the CDC in Atlanta on September 26.

Participants, including local political activists, voiced distrust of pharmaceutical companies and government agencies, often referencing false claims about the Amish community and autism. Despite the lack of counter-protesters, passing drivers booed the assembly, while across the street, a small memorial honored Officer Rose and some CDC workers laid off during organizational changes promoted by Kennedy.