By Sean O'Donnell - 21 March, 2018
Launching a new video to mark World Down Syndrome Day, a spokesperson for the LoveBoth project has said that the Eighth Amendment has ensured a culture of respect for people with disabilities in Ireland, unlike that which exists in other countries.
Maeve O’Hanlon said, “The video we are launching today tells the story of Carina and her son Benjamin who has Down Syndrome. Their experience is that of many families all over Ireland – where children with conditions like Down Syndrome are given equal protection under our law thanks to the Eighth Amendment which doesn’t discriminate between babies in the womb in any way. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case in many countries throughout the world, such as Britain where 9 out of 10 babies diagnosed with the condition in the womb are aborted.
“Today is a day that celebrates diversity and equality in Ireland. It’s a time for us to reflect on the ways we can work on improving outcomes for people with Down Syndrome and enable them to fulfil their potential in every area of life.”
World Down Syndrome Day – 21st March, has taken as its theme “What I bring to my community”.
Organisers of the day gave out this statement on the their website:
All people with Down Syndrome must have opportunities to contribute to the community and live valued lives, included on a full and equal basis with others, in all aspects of society.
People with Down Syndrome can and do bring so much to the community, wherever they live around the world, when given the opportunity.
But many are prevented from making meaningful contributions.
On World Down Syndrome Day, Wednesday 21 March 2018, we call upon every person with Down syndrome to tell the world what you bring to your community.
To view the LoveBoth video go to: https://www.facebook.com/lovebothproject/videos/1842754822684133/
