A remarkable mom is making significant strides in promoting the visibility of individuals with disabilities in the fashion industry. Meet Sarah Thompson, a writer and photographer, who founded the nonprofit organization Changing The Face Of Beauty. Established in 2012, this initiative is dedicated to empowering people with disabilities by advocating for their representation in advertising and media. Sarah’s motivation stems from her daughter, Lily, who was born with Down syndrome.
As outlined on their website, Sarah and her team actively collaborate with both private and commercial retailers to enhance the visibility of individuals living with disabilities through marketing efforts and educational initiatives. In just three years since its inception, Changing The Face Of Beauty has successfully partnered with over 100 companies to include models with disabilities in their advertising campaigns, including popular brands like Emma Roberts’ clothing line. The organization also played a pivotal role in featuring the first model with Down syndrome, Jamie Brewer, on the runway at New York Fashion Week.
Breaking Barriers and Dismantling Stigma
However, the mission of Changing The Face Of Beauty extends beyond mere marketing and aesthetics. In a recent feature, Sarah emphasized how inclusion can help dismantle stigma and break down barriers for people with disabilities. “I want to demonstrate that we are more alike than different,” she stated. “I truly believe that increased exposure to diversity fosters natural acceptance.”
Improving Employment Opportunities
A critical aspect of this advocacy is improving employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Currently, only 44 percent of adults with intellectual disabilities are part of the U.S. workforce. Sarah asserts, “We strongly believe that greater visibility leads to increased job opportunities. Employment fosters independence, allowing individuals to fully engage in society.”
Statistics from the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities reveal that around 7 to 8 million Americans, approximately three percent of the population, live with intellectual disabilities. Despite this significant number, positive representation in media remains scarce. These individuals deserve to be celebrated for their achievements and beauty, just like anyone else.
The Role of Advocacy Organizations
Organizations like Changing The Face Of Beauty are instrumental in advocating for people with disabilities, challenging societal norms, and promoting a more diverse media landscape. Every individual possesses beauty, and the work of this organization contributes to a world where such diversity is genuinely acknowledged.
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Conclusion
In summary, Sarah Thompson’s Changing The Face Of Beauty is a beacon of hope and change in the fashion industry, promoting the inclusion of individuals with disabilities and striving for a more accepting society.