President Trump’s recent statements linking the use of paracetamol to autism have stirred controversy and sparked debates worldwide. The UK’s leading martial arts organisation, NAKMAS, has responded to these comments by reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity and understanding.
In a statement released on Tuesday 23 September, 2025, the Chief Executive of NAKMAS, the Reverend Joe Ellis, shared his perspective as someone clinically diagnosed with autism and a karate 8th Dan grandmaster. Ellis expressed his concerns about the negative and untrue implications of President Trump’s comments, emphasizing that autism should not be viewed as a disease or hindrance.
“Autism has made me the person I am today,” Ellis stated. “I have had a great national and international karate career spanning nearly fifty years, and autism has never held me back. In fact, it made me who I am today.”
NAKMAS has long been an advocate for promoting diversity and empowering neurodiverse individuals from all backgrounds, without considering diagnoses as a ‘dilemma’.
“The statements made by President Trump regarding autism are concerning and inaccurate,” remarked Ellis. “It is crucial to educate and raise awareness about neurodiversity to dispel misconceptions and foster a more inclusive and positive society.”
In light of these developments, NAKMAS reiterates its dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals of all abilities to participate and excel in martial arts. The organisation’s programmes are designed to celebrate differences and nurture personal growth through training and discipline.
The martial arts community applauds Ellis for his resilience and courage in raising awareness about autism and challenging stereotypes. As he continues to lead NAKMAS with his unique perspective and unwavering determination, the organisation stands by their commitment to inclusivity and understanding.
For further inquiries or interview requests with the Reverend Joe Ellis, please contact NAKMAS’ Press/Media Officer, Libby Ellison, at libby.ellison@nakmas.org.uk.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
For further information, please contact:
Libby Ellison, Press/Media Officer, NAKMAS
Tel: 01227 370055
Email: libby.ellison@nakmas.org.uk
Reverend Joe Ellis, Chief Executive, NAKMAS
Tel: 01227 370055 / 01227 376180
Email: joe.ellis@nakmas.org.uk
NAKMAS Press Office via https://nakmas.org.uk/pressoffice
Find out more about NAKMAS via https://nakmas.org.uk
The National Association of Karate and Martial Art Schools (NAKMAS) is a non-funded national governing body and is a member of Sport & Recreation Alliance and the International Sport for All. With its Head Office based in Kent, NAKMAS governs all forms of traditional and modern martial arts throughout the United Kingdom.
NAKMAS is accredited to the Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport. To find out more about Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport at https://www.uksport.gov.uk/news/2004/11/17/equality-standards-launched
NAKMAS is an approved insurance provider via Aviva and Allianz and holds a National and International Quality Standard Certificate FS 40219 – ISO 9001 via the BSI (British Standards Institution).
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.