Posted: | October 25, 2017 09:46 AM |
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From: | Representative Anita Astorino Kulik |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Celebrating People with Down Syndrome & Denouncing Selective Abortion |
In the near future, I will be introducing a resolution celebrating people with Down syndrome and denouncing the practice of selectively aborting fetuses with Down syndrome. As you may know, Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition associated with intellectual disability, a characteristic facial appearance, and several other symptoms. Despite this, babies diagnosed with Down syndrome can grow to lead very productive lives, become active members of their communities and positively contribute towards society. Prenatal tests have made it possible for doctors to diagnose a fetus with Down syndrome while still in the womb. When given a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome for their child, some women may feel pressured from their doctor or others to abort. A prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome should not be used to terminate a pregnancy and selectively aborting fetuses with Down syndrome is not a healthcare solution. It is imperative that we respect and celebrate individuals with Down syndrome for the joy and contributions they bring to society and denounce any practice that serves to take or devalue the lives of children with Down syndrome. I ask that my colleagues please join me in co-sponsoring this very sensible and important legislation. |
Introduced as HR609