October 10, 2017: Del Rio News-Herald * Letter to the Editor * October: Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Letter to the Editor,
October: Down Syndrome Awareness Month
President Ronald Reagan was the first president to
officially designate October as “National Down Syndrome Month” in 1984 by
signing a resolution to
that effect.
President Barack Obama, having been a radically
pro-abortion president, unfortunately did not officially give recognition to
Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
President Donald Trump continued the highly
commendable tradition set by President Reagan by recognizing Down Syndrome
Awareness Month in an official statement declaring, “During Down Syndrome
Awareness Month, we celebrate the significant contributions that people with
Down syndrome make to their families, to their communities, and to our Nation.
We also salute the family members, caregivers, medical professionals, and
advocates who have dedicated themselves to ensuring that these extraordinary
people enjoy lives filled with love and increasing opportunity.”
His statement continued to affirm his pledge to being a
pro-life President, “This month, we renew our Nation’s strong commitment to
promoting the health, well-being, and inherent dignity of all children and
adults with Down syndrome. Sadly, there remain too many people, both in
the United States and throughout the world, that still see Down syndrome as an
excuse to ignore or discard human life. This sentiment is and will always
be tragically misguided. We must always be vigilant in defending and
promoting the unique and special gifts of all citizens in need. We should
not tolerate any discrimination against them, as all people have inherent
dignity.”
Astronomically high rates of abortion for pre-born babies
diagnosed with Down syndrome are prevalent all over the world. Following
screening and diagnosis of the Down syndrome condition, Denmark has a 98
percent abortion rate, France has a 77 percent abortion rate and in the United
States, 67 percent of those diagnosed with the condition are aborted.
The statement concluded, “The approximately 250,000
Americans with Down syndrome truly embody the great spirit of our Nation.
They inspire joy, kindness, and wonder in our families, our workplaces,
and our communities. We will always endeavor to make sure that their
precious gifts are never maligned or taken for granted.”
Marian Casillas, Ed.D
Del Rio