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We’re Starting to See More Representation of People With Disabilities in Fashion, Thanks to This Inspiring Mom
In our quest to create a more inclusive world for our children, one incredible mom is making real strides. Meet Sarah Thompson, a writer, photographer, and the visionary behind the nonprofit organization, Changing The Face Of Beauty. Founded in 2012, and inspired by her daughter, Emily, who was born with Down syndrome, Sarah’s mission is to promote the empowerment and visibility of individuals with disabilities in media and advertising.
According to their website, Sarah and her dedicated team are forming partnerships with both private and commercial retailers to elevate the presence of people with disabilities in marketing and educational programs. Since the inception of Changing The Face Of Beauty, they have successfully collaborated with over 100 companies, including popular fashion lines like Tori Spelling’s Little Maven, to incorporate models with disabilities into their advertising campaigns. They even made history by featuring Jamie Brewer, the first model with Down syndrome, on the runway at New York Fashion Week!
Breaking Barriers Through Inclusion
But it’s not just about the glamorous photos and advertisements. In a recent interview, Sarah highlighted how inclusion can dissolve stigma and break down barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. “I want to show everyone that we’re more alike than different,” she explains. “The more people witness and accept our differences, the more natural acceptance will become.” A key focus of her organization is to enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities, as only 44 percent of adults with intellectual disabilities are currently part of the U.S. workforce. “We believe that increased visibility will lead to more job opportunities, which fosters independence and societal participation,” she asserts.
The Importance of Representation
Statistics from the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities indicate that around seven to eight million individuals in the U.S. live with intellectual disabilities, representing about three percent of the population. Yet, it’s still an unfortunate reality that positive representation in media is rare. These individuals deserve recognition for their beauty and achievements, just like anyone else. Nonprofits like Changing The Face Of Beauty are vital in creating opportunities for people with disabilities while challenging the media narrative to be more inclusive and diverse. Every person has their own unique beauty, and the work being done is paving the way for a world that acknowledges that.
Further Reading and Resources
Want to dive deeper into this topic? Check out this post for more insights on making a difference through representation. Also, if you’re interested in fertility resources, this link is a must-see. For those on the journey of pregnancy, this resource is excellent for understanding various options.
Conclusion
In summary, Sarah’s efforts are making waves in the fashion industry, helping to shape a more inclusive world for individuals with disabilities. By advocating for their representation, she is not only opening doors for them but also fostering a culture of acceptance and celebration of diversity.