Legislators join Mass. Down Syndrome Congress for Advocacy Day

BOSTON — Tuesday, local families affected by down syndrome gathered at the state house to lobby legislators to support people with intellectual disabilities.

It was the fourth annual "Down Syndrome Advocacy Day" put on by "the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress."

Families from all over the state came out and one family even came all the way from Japan to participate.

One of the bills they want passed would fund support services to help people with intellectual disabilities attend college.

“Students ages 18 to 22 can work with their college classes to participate in activities on a college campus and it really helps them prepare for adulthood and discover employment opportunities,” said Maureen Gallagher, MDSC Executive Director.

Boston 25 News’ Heather Hegedus was emcee of the event and some of the speakers included college grads with down syndrome.

The Mass Down Syndrome Congress has been successful in getting four laws passed over the past five years, including one that prevents people with disabilities who are on organ transplant waiting list, from being discriminated against.

Cox Media Group