Sparking controversy across social media, Richard Dawkins—probably quite
unintentionally—created a newfound awareness of individuals diagnosed with Down
syndrome. When a woman reached out to Dawkins, asking what she should do if she was
expecting a child with Down syndrome, Dawkins stated, “Abort it and try again. It would be
immoral to bring it into the world if you have the choice” (Edgin, 2014). The social media
outcry against Dawkins was profound, and the global awareness of Down syndrome increased
manifold. Although there is more awareness, many people are still unfamiliar with the disorder
because they do not personally know anyone afflicted. Dawkins’ simplistic answer, and the
controversy that followed begs the question: who exactly is affected by Down syndrome, and is
an individual’s ability to be successful really diminished by this diagnosis?
220,000 babies are born with Down syndrome each year and there are over 1.6 million
children living with Down syndrome worldwide (Dseinternational, 2014). With improved
medical care, people who have Down syndrome are now living much longer than before and
accomplishing much more than ever before. Although it is unfortunate, the stigma against
Down syndrome is still very much alive, and those who suffer from Down syndrome constantly
have to live with the stereotypes and negative societal perceptions associated with their
disorder.
The above painting was created by the artist Tazia Fowley, aged 43. Tazia holds the
honor of having this painting displayed in the home of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Tazia also has Down syndrome (Goldberg, 2013). It is necessary to work together towards the
destigmatization of Down syndrome because individuals should not be confined to the societal
shackles given to them because of their disorder. Dawkins’ perspective that babies should be
aborted for the sole reason that they have been diagnosed with Down syndrome, is unfair
as it defines the child by their diagnosis. Tazia and others afflicted with Down syndrome can
definitely attest to the fact that Down syndrome does not define them. What defines them is
their ability to move forward despite their setbacks, and their astonishing accomplishments as a
result.
References:
About Down syndrome. (2014). Retrieved from: http://www.dseinternational.org/en-us/about-
down-syndrome/.
Edgin, J., & Fernandez, F. (2014). The Truth About Down Syndrome. The New
York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/29/
opinion/the-truth-about-down-syndrome.html?
_r=0&module=ArrowsNav&contentCollection=Opinion&action=keypress®ion=FixedL
eft&pgtype=article
Goldberg, E. (2013). Will And Kate Fight Stigma Against Down Syndrome In Beautiful Way. The
Huffington Post. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/12/will-kate-
painting-gift_n_3915196.html
