As I've gotten more involved with advocating for individuals with disabilities, I am constantly bombarded with amazing stories of individuals whom society has labeled unable, overcoming the odds, and seeing the worst of humanity. These emotional peaks and valleys are probably the hardest part of being and advocate. Each reward is an inspiration to keep going, and every heartbreaking story kindles the fire in your soul. However, to a woman who works in a highly logical male dominated field, where I have diligently worked on my 'poker face' and keeping my emotions level, this oscillating wave of emotion is enough to drive one batty. I have come to realize I need to blog more regularly, I need to process this information, and I need to share the injustice that exists so profoundly in the 'disabled' community.
I need to let you all know about what Down syndrome is and what it isn't, we can start valuing all people no matter their perceived ability or inability.
Let's start with the appalling news:
Please educate yourself on the death of a young man Ethan Saylor. This young man died in the hands of the police, who were trying to 'calm him down' and ended up suffocating him. To read more please visit the NDSS website.
I like what the NDSS has to say in response:
'It is vitally important that professionals in law enforcement and first responders understand the nature of Down syndrome as a genetic condition, the medical and behavioral cues they can look for, and safe ways to avoid conflict and harm – so that people with Down syndrome can be treated with the respect that they deserve and that we demand.'
People so often assume that individuals with Down syndrome are 'stupid' and don't understand, when in reality they usually just need a little extra time to respond. Patronizing individuals with Down syndrome only makes the situation worse. Visit Sproutfilms.org to see many films made by individuals with Down syndrome address this issue of independance.
Now for some awesome headlines! This past month there have been two amazing stories of individuals with Down syndrome succeeding in our education system. First I'd like to recognize Jamie Roland of West Hartford, CT who maintains a 3.6 GPA and has become the first individual with Down syndrome to be inducted in to the National Honors Society! Look how far we've come in MY lifetime. When I was born, it was thought individuals with Down syndrome could never be taught to read or write!
Secondly, Karen Gaffeny becomes the first living person with Down syndrome to receive an honorary doctorate. She can swim across the English channel, can you?
Each day I learn new and amazing accomplishments by individuals with Down syndrome, whose parents, teachers, and care givers have refused to accept the accepted role of individuals with intellectual disability . It is my job to share them with you, so we can see start seeing the unjust attitude that so permeates our society and allows for it to be acceptable to perform eugenics on our true x-men.
