Time for More Health

The Future Is Ours: A Resounding Success in Brussels

Brussels, May 12, 2023

You can find the official report here.

The Future is Ours project has achieved resounding success with its recent in-person event, #TheFutureIsOurs, held in Brussels from May 1st to May 3rd. The event marked a significant milestone for Down Syndrome self-advocacy, drawing 72 individuals from 11 EU countries, including 28 self-advocates with Down Syndrome.

The event kicked off with a delightful dinner on May 1st, where participants from different countries came together and shared their experiences. On May 2nd, MEP Lukas Mandl welcomed the participants at the ZWEIG Building and expressed his support for the goals of the event, highlighting the importance of advocating for the rights of individuals with Down Syndrome.

The workshops, which covered a range of topics related to the visibility autonomy, equal treatment, and well-being of people with Down Syndrome, were informative and practical, providing participants with valuable knowledge and tools to improve their health and well-being. In the afternoon, the Time for more Health panel discussion featuring MEP Rosa Estaràs Ferragut, MEP Helmut Geuking, Professor Mara Dierssen Sotos, Doctor Pilar Garcia Fernández, self-advocate Jean Phillipe Barone, and the expert Mareike Fuisz covered important issues related to the health and well-being of people with Down Syndrome.

One of the most impactful components of the event was the “Meet Your MEP” part, which provided participants with an opportunity to meet their country’s representatives at the European Parliament and advocate for their rights as self-advocates with Down Syndrome. The President, Roberta Metsola, was among the many MEPs who graced the occasion, warmly welcoming everyone.

The event culminated in a delightful reception hosted by MEP Margarita De la Pisa, providing participants, speakers, and organizers with a chance to unwind, dance, and feast on spanish delicacies.

EU For Trisomy 21 is proud of the success of this event, bringing together a diverse group of self-advocates with Down Syndrome from different countries and backgrounds. We are grateful to our speakers, participants, and partner organizations for their tremendous support in advocating for the rights of individuals with Down Syndrome. We also thank the MEPs for their gracious presence at the event. Stay tuned for more photos, videos, and future news on Down Syndrome advocacy and self-advocacy on our website and social media channels.