I’m sure that you’ve heard that this year’s Gerber baby has Down syndrome. His name is Lucus Warren, and he is adorable! I think Gerber’s decision is smart; it would have been wonderful for Gerber to pioneer this initiative years ago, but as the above quote suggests, now is the second best time.
According to the CDC, approximately 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome in the USA every year. It remains the most common chromosomal disorder (2017).
Disability is the largest minority group in the United States. (#TBT to this Forbes article from 2016.) Whether or not disabled people are a “recognized minority”, if this statement holds true on a global scale, imagine the extraordinary number of people such corporate initiatives could impact.
The definition of “disability” recognizes both mental and physical disabilities; as such, it is extensive and (according to the Ontario Human Rights Commission) should be interpreted in broad terms.
As disabilities affect people of every age group, in every country, and of every socio-economic background, it is important that companies begin to champion disability rights. If done correctly, I think that responsible corporations can help to end the stigma associated with disability. (I include ‘responsible,’ as anyone can be exploited, but with some tact and understanding, I think big business can positively impact the lives of those with a disability.)
It’s A Go! Thanks for reading.
Amber Green