DUBAI, 12th May, 2020 (WAM) — The Emirates Down Syndrome Society in Dubai has confirmed that the country’s first self-advocacy program for people with Down syndrome, launched in its third phase, continues to achieve its goals. It was established to raise the voice of assertive people with Down syndrome, enabling them to express themselves, express their needs and properly protect their rights.
Dr Sandal Jaror, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said: “In 2019, we launched a self-advocacy program for people with Down syndrome in association with the International Down Syndrome Organization (DSI). 20 advocates from various specializations representing government and private agencies and centers and parents from all emirates of the country to train 35 self-advocates with Down syndrome.

He added, “Self-advocacy is one of the most important themes presented at the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2021, which the country won for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.
Jaroor appreciated the continued support of the wise leadership for the people of the country, the improved status of the country in the field of rights of the people of the country and the progress it has made in this field.
For his part, Nawal Al Nasser, Deputy Chairman of the Instrument Council, praised all the facilitators and participants from the various agencies and organizations represented in the Ministry of Social Development, the Saeed High Organization for the Sharjah City’s Robust People for Humanitarian Services. Al-Noor Society for the care and rehabilitation of vulnerable people and our Center for Children and Parents who have shown great commitment. And clear communication to achieve the project’s goals indicates that the project will result in dissemination. For people with Down syndrome to express themselves and increase their self-confidence, share knowledge and self-advocacy concepts and principles with their colleagues and parents.
On her part, Salma Khanan, executive director of the association and head of the self-advocacy program for people with Down syndrome, a first at the state level, said, “We are working hard with the facilitators to facilitate the advocates to express themselves. and talk confidently about their dreams and aspirations.”