Charlotte Fien, a spirited 21-year-old with Down Syndrome, recently shared her powerful story with the United Nations’ Human Rights Committee in Geneva, celebrating World Down Syndrome Day. Her heartfelt message, initially intended for the UK House of Commons, addressed alarming trends in prenatal screening, as showcased in the BBC documentary “A World Without Down’s Syndrome?”. Fien revealed troubling statistics: 100% of Icelandic babies diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted, while in Denmark and Britain, abortion rates hover around 98% and 90%, respectively.
Fien passionately voiced her dread that advancing screening technologies might erase Down Syndrome from existence. “I am not suffering. I am not ill. None of my friends who have Down’s Syndrome are suffering either. We live happy lives,” she stated, dispelling myths surrounding the condition. Charlie, as she is affectionately known, urged society to recognize the humanity of individuals with Down Syndrome, emphasizing that they are not different due to their extra chromosome, but rather, they lead joyful lives as unique beings.
The echoes of her words resounded in a five-minute standing ovation, affirming the importance of celebrating life. Her perspective is particularly significant given the historical context provided by Dr. Jérôme Lejeune, who identified the cause of Down Syndrome in the 1950s. Unfortunately, his discoveries inadvertently contributed to rising abortion rates among affected pregnancies, highlighting the ongoing societal struggle with the value of human life, rooted in capability rather than intrinsic worth.
Lejeune’s advocacy for recognizing life at conception remains a cornerstone for many pro-life supporters. His assertion, “To accept the fact that, after fertilization has taken place, a new human has come into being is no longer a matter of taste or opinion,” calls for a reevaluation of societal beliefs surrounding disability and worthiness, a theme woven throughout Fien’s poignant speech.
Charlotte Fien, a 21-year-old with Down Syndrome, addressed the UN about the rising abortion rates among babies diagnosed with Down Syndrome due to advanced screening. Her speech emphasized the happiness and humanity of individuals with this condition, challenging societal perceptions. Citing the historical context of Dr. Jérôme Lejeune’s discoveries, the article calls for a deeper understanding of life’s value beyond productivity.
Charlotte Fien’s impactful speech at the UN sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with Down Syndrome amidst rising abortion rates due to advanced prenatal testing. Her passion and clarity encourage society to embrace the humanity and joy that individuals with disabilities bring. Furthermore, reflections on Dr. Jérôme Lejeune’s work underscore the need to cherish life from conception, prompting an urgent dialogue about disability and value in today’s world.
The article discusses the societal implications of advancements in prenatal testing technologies for Down Syndrome, as presented by Charlotte Fien during her speech at the UN Human Rights Committee. It highlights alarming abortion rates following diagnoses in various countries and critiques the perception of individuals with Down Syndrome, addressing historical and scientific reflections on disability and human life valuation.
Original Source: www.gospelherald.com
