I am compelled to reach out to you today, as a parent of a child with special needs, to share the deep concerns that have weighed heavily on my heart since your election. I cannot speak for everyone in our diverse nation, but I can share my fears for my child and the future we envision for her.
At 26 weeks into my pregnancy, we discovered that our daughter would be born with a serious congenital heart defect. By 28 weeks, we learned she would also have Trisomy 21, commonly known as Down syndrome. This diagnosis opened our eyes to the harsh realities of societal attitudes towards individuals with disabilities.
When I first heard about the allegations that you mocked a reporter with a disability, I tried to give you the benefit of the doubt. However, the defense that you’ve used similar gestures before feels all too familiar—it echoes the hurtful actions of children in school who mock those with disabilities. While it may not have been your intention, your actions have consequences, and they resonate deeply within our community.
As our leader, it is vital that you listen to the concerns of individuals with disabilities and their families. Ignoring the voices of the disability community only gives society the green light to perpetuate discrimination and marginalization. I urge you to recognize the impact of your words and actions and to issue an apology.
I believe that if you had a personal connection to someone with Down syndrome, such issues might have been more prominent in your campaign. In my experience, raising a daughter with Down syndrome has been one of the greatest joys of my life. The people I have met within the Down syndrome community have changed my perspective, demonstrating remarkable resilience and positivity. My daughter, now two, is a vibrant member of her community, and she does not require pity—she deserves recognition and support.
I wonder if you could envision defending the worth of your children in the same way that I must defend my daughter’s existence. The harsh reality is that the majority of pregnancies diagnosed with Trisomy 21 end in termination, but I trust you would not advocate such an option, given your strong stance against late-term abortions. It’s clear that you believe my daughter deserves a chance at life, but what about her future?
I have some pressing questions for you:
- Healthcare: I understand your desire to repeal the Affordable Care Act. What do you intend to replace it with? My daughter’s healthcare is crucial, as she has ongoing medical needs that require coverage. The risk of being denied insurance due to a pre-existing condition is a genuine fear for families like mine. Can you assure us that you will safeguard access to necessary care?
- Employment Opportunities: You often emphasize the responsibility of employers in providing for citizens. However, what will happen if my daughter cannot secure a job? What plans do you have in place to support individuals like her, who may face challenges in the traditional job market? It’s vital to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the resources they need to thrive, regardless of their employment status.
- Value and Dignity: Lastly, I would like to know if you believe my daughter deserves the same respect and dignity as anyone else. Will you advocate for her rights and ensure that she is treated as a person, not an object? It’s crucial for us to hear your commitment to valuing all individuals, regardless of their abilities or appearance.
As I navigate these challenges, I still hold onto hope. You have yet to address disability rights publicly, and perhaps this is an opportunity for growth. Remember, the disabled community is one that any one of us could join at any moment.
The parents of children with special needs are a passionate and resilient group, and while we come from diverse backgrounds, our love for our children unites us. As I embark on this journey of advocacy, I will be asking questions, demanding answers, and raising my voice for change, and I know I will not be alone.
Thank you for considering our perspective as we move forward together.
In summary, the letter articulates a parent’s fears and hopes regarding disability rights under President Walker’s administration. It raises essential questions about healthcare, employment, and the dignity of individuals with disabilities, urging the president to listen and take action.