Advocating for Change: 2024 Legislative Wins for Down Syndrome and the Power of Voting

In 2024, we’ve seen some inspiring legislative victories for the Down syndrome community, paving the way for greater inclusion and access to resources for individuals with disabilities. At GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati, we’re celebrating these accomplishments while recognizing that the journey toward full equality and rights is ongoing. When we advocate for ourselves and others, especially by exercising our right to vote, we can create lasting change.

Key Legislative Wins for Down Syndrome in 2024

This year has been monumental for the Down syndrome and disability communities, with several key pieces of legislation passed that directly impact the quality of life and access to services for individuals with Down syndrome. Here are a few of the most impactful bills:

The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act: In an historic first, the House passed the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act in 2024. Named in honor of DeOndra Dixon, a Global Down Syndrome Foundation ambassador, this legislation expands funding for the INCLUDE Project (INvestigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndromE). The act emphasizes the importance of researching co-occurring conditions that affect individuals with Down syndrome, such as Alzheimer’s disease, congenital heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. This act is a tremendous win for the Down syndrome community, enhancing research that could significantly improve healthcare outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome.

The Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act: In another crucial legislative victory, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act was passed by the House in 2024. This law, named after Charlotte Woodward, a woman with Down syndrome who received a life-saving heart transplant, prohibits healthcare providers from denying organ transplants to individuals solely based on their disability status. The act ensures that people with Down syndrome and other disabilities are given equal access to organ transplants, a major step in protecting the rights and lives of those with disabilities .

The Power of Advocacy: Why Your Voice Matters

While these legislative achievements are worth celebrating, we must continue to advocate for more progress. One of the most powerful ways we can influence change is through voting. By casting our ballots, we have the opportunity to elect leaders who prioritize disability rights, healthcare access, and education equity.

Voting is more than just a civic duty—it’s a tool for amplifying the voices of those who may not be able to advocate for themselves. Every vote cast in favor of inclusive policies helps ensure that future laws protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, create more opportunities for people with Down syndrome, and foster a society where everyone is valued and included.

The Importance of Voting for Disability Rights

Individuals with Down syndrome, like all citizens, deserve to have their rights protected, from healthcare to education to employment. However, these rights aren’t guaranteed without advocacy and action. Your vote helps shape the future, determining which policies are put in place and which leaders are entrusted with the responsibility of fighting for inclusion.

In addition, advocating for the right to vote is crucial. People with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, often face barriers to voting, such as inaccessible polling places or lack of appropriate assistance. By supporting legislation that ensures accessible voting and advocating for voting rights protections, we can help create a system where everyone’s voice is heard.

A GiGi’s Playhouse Advocacy Visit to the Ohio State Capitol

One powerful example of advocacy in action comes from our sister Playhouse in Cleveland. This past April, Lizz Maxwell, Site Director of GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, made an impactful visit to the Ohio State Capitol. During her time there, Lizz engaged with various senators and their teams, all dedicated to serving families in Northeast Ohio.

These discussions sparked new ideas and initiatives for raising awareness and expanding support for individuals with Down syndrome throughout the state. The senators’ questions and insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our community, and Lizz’s visit underscored the importance of continuous advocacy and outreach.

We are so thankful for incredible advocates like Lizz Maxwell, who tirelessly work to make a difference, not just for their local Playhouse, but for the entire Down syndrome community. Advocacy at the state level is critical to ensuring that the voices of individuals with Down syndrome and their families are heard, and we deeply appreciate the time and effort Lizz and the state legislators dedicated to this cause.

How You Can Get Involved

Voting is a powerful way to advocate for the Down syndrome community, but it’s only part of the equation. Here are some steps you can take to continue advocating for positive change:

1. Register to Vote and Stay Informed
   Ensure you’re registered to vote and educate yourself on the issues that matter most to the Down syndrome and disability communities. Stay informed about your local and national candidates’ stances on disability rights and other related policies.
2. Encourage Others to Vote
   Share the importance of voting with your friends, family, and community. Make sure others know how their votes can impact disability rights, healthcare access, and employment inclusion.
3. Advocate Year-Round
   Don’t wait until an election year to make your voice heard. Contact your representatives, get involved in local advocacy groups, and share your personal stories of how legislation impacts individuals with Down syndrome.
4. Use Voting Resources
   If you or someone you know needs assistance with voting or understanding the voting process, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) offers a range of resources for advocates. Learn more about how to advocate for voting rights and ensure that every voice is heard by visiting the NDSS Voting Resources page here: NDSS Voting Resources.

Looking Forward: What’s Next?

While we celebrate the legislative victories of 2024, we know there is more work to be done. Whether advocating for more inclusive education policies or pushing for better access to healthcare, we must continue to fight for the rights of individuals with Down syndrome. Voting is a key part of that fight, and every vote cast brings us one step closer to a future where everyone is valued, respected, and given the opportunity to thrive.

At GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati, we are committed to this mission, but we can’t do it alone. We need passionate advocates like you to stand with us, use your voice, and vote for the change you want to see in the world!