Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairwoman Rodgers for her support and steadfast leadership on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak not just as a Member of Congress but as a father to a 22-year-old young man with Down syndrome. My son is a living testament to the fact that his value and his potential extend far beyond any limitations imposed by his disability. Society must never devalue any human life for a perceived flaw or defect. For too long, our society did just that with how it viewed and treated people with Down syndrome, but when we stopped sending people to institutions and started providing proper medical care, such as surgery for those with a congenital heart defect, we saw their life spans increase beyond what doctors told society was possible. The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act is a critical step toward advancing our understanding of Down syndrome and improving the quality of life for those living with it. Named in honor of DeOndra Dixon, whose life exemplified resilience and excellence, this bill seeks to advance our collective effort to ensure that every individual, regardless of their circumstance, receives the respect and care they deserve. This legislation will provide crucial statutory authority for an essential research initiative under the National Institutes of Health. The INCLUDE Project dedicated to this cause will benefit from solidified funding and framework.…”