Spain's first parliamentarian with Down syndrome

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it is Mar Galcerán: Spain elects first parliamentarian with Down’s syndrome Published 9 hours ago comments Comments Mar Galcerán IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES Spain has elected its first parliamentarian with Down's syndrome. Mar Galcerán was voted into Valencia's regional assembly, in the east of the country. She is thought to be the first person with the genetic disorder to join a European regional or national parliament. Her appointment has been called "a huge step forward" and "an example of real inclusion." More like this What is Down's syndrome? First Barbie with Down's syndrome announced 'Life as a model can be challenging' What's happened? Mar Galcerán IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES The 45-year-old has been involved with politics since she was 18, when she joined Spain's conservative People's Party. Speaking to the Guardian newspaper, Ms Galcerán said she wants to be seen as a person, and not for her disability. She added: "Society is starting to see that people with Down's syndrome have a lot to contribute." Her appointment has been welcomed by fellow politicians and campaigners. Carlos Mazón, President of the Regional Government of Valencia wrote on social media: "Great news for politics, overcoming barriers." And Agustín Matía Amor from Down España, a Down's syndrome organisation in Spain said: "We haven't heard of anyone else. It's a huge step forward and an example of real inclusion" What is Down's syndrome? Girl with Down's syndrome. IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES Down's syndrome is a genetic condition - this means it is something you are born with. It is not a disease, an illness or a condition that someone can catch. Down's syndrome affects a person's ability to learn and their physical health - but the level of impact that has on someone's life varies from person to person. There are thought to be around 60,000 people in the UK with Down's syndrome. View comments Watch Newsround Watch Newsround. VideoWatch Newsround Published 7 hours ago De-Graft on the Newsround set Watch Newsround - signed and subtitled. VideoWatch Newsround - signed and subtitled Published 4 hours ago BSL Top Stories Do you like to read for fun? Published 7 hours ago Comments 12 child with a stack of books on her head Why do dogs wag their tails? Published 4 hours ago Dog tail. Sarina Wiegman extends deal as England manager Published 23 hours ago Sarina Wiegman Spain elects first Parliament member with Down’s syndrome Published 9 hours ago Mar Galcerán Why Europe has no Queens as of this week Published 9 hours ago queen margrethe of denmark waves Snow falls across the UK on coldest night of winter Published 7 hours ago Comments 8 Beatles statue Liverpool. Your Planet: Environment news. VideoYour Planet: Environment news Published 9 hours ago A mother and baby bear CBBC CBBC iPlayer Newsround Bitesize Own It CBeebies CBBC on TV CBBC Help Terms of Use About the BBC Privacy Policy Cookies Accessibility Help Parental Guidance Contact the BBC Get Personalised Newsletters Why you can trust the BBC Advertise with us Do not share or sell my info © 2024 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.