This Woman Has Become Spain’s First Lawmaker With Down Syndrome
Mar Galcerán said she wanst people to see her as a person, not just for her disability.
A 45-year-old woman has become Spain’s first lawmaker with Down syndrome.
Mar Galcerán became a member of the regional parliament in Valencia in September 2023.
The 45-year-old started her political career when she was 18, becoming a member of the conservative People’s Party, after being attracted to what she described as its “embrace of tradition.”
For nearly 20 years, she worked as a civil servant in Valencia, where she pushed for inclusive policies.
She then climbed the ranks and was placed in the 20th position on the PP’s list of candidates for the regional elections in Valencia last May.
Galcerán also led a local group that supports families who have children with Down syndrome.
In an interview with the Guardian, she said that people with Down’s syndrome have a lot to contribute to society and she wants to break down prejudices.
“I want people to see me as a person, not just for my disability”, Galcerán said.
