We love our friends with Down syndrome (many of whom have been on this show) who are doing BIG things in the world! Representation is important and we are cheering them on! But what about the people with DS who aren’t running marathons or starring in movies? Does society see them as important too? Or does our world only see people with DS as valuable when they accomplish something big? There is a lot to explore here. That’s why we sat down and chatted with Justin Hawkins, a PHD candidate at Yale University, a sibling to Jenna, his sister with Down syndrome, and the author of “Dignity Beyond Accomplishment.” We’re talking about growing up with Jenna, ableism and acceptance, and why he wants to “severe the connection between dignity and accomplishment all together.” If you’ve ever wanted a deep dive into the inherent worth of people with disabilities, this one’s for you.

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SHOW NOTES

Read Dignity Beyond Accomplishment by Justin Hawkins

Read more from Justin at justinryanhawkins.com

Listen to Episode 99: Our Response to "The Last Children of Down Syndrome" by Sarah Zhang

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