ABOUT US...
The Maryland Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (MDAC), founded in 2007 and reenvisioned in 2021, is a collaboration of self-advocates, family members, other allies, and Down syndrome organizations from across the State of Maryland that is committed to ensuring that people with Down syndrome have the opportunity, encouragement, and support required to lead a self-determined life. MISSION...
The Maryland Down syndrome Advocacy Coalition advocates for laws, regulations, and policies that improve the quality of life for people with Down syndrome, as well as the family members and professionals who support them. VISION...
Each person with Down syndrome in Maryland has access to the same rights, privileges, and opportunities available to other Maryland residents. GUIDING PRINCIPLES...
-Our Guiding Principles
-Disability rights are human rights.
-Diversity, equity, and inclusion for all people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities and their families guide MDAC’s work.
-People with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities are able to make informed choices about all aspects of their lives.
-Students with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities are lifelong learners, and should have access to high quality public education throughout elementary and secondary school and postsecondary education.
-People with Down syndrome and their families need access to high quality, affordable child care and early intervention services.
-People with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities can be successful in competitive integrated employment when given appropriate supports and opportunities.
-Adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities should control where and with whom they live, have the freedom to choose their daily routines and other activities, and have opportunities to rent or buy their own homes.
-Home and community-based services (HCBS) and long term services and supports should be readily available, easily accessible, fully funded, flexible, and implemented as soon as the need arises.
-People with Down syndrome need equitable, high quality, and affordable physical and mental health care.
-All forms of transportation, including public transportation, provide a critical means for people with disabilities to access employment, education, health care and community life.
-People with Down syndrome are able to participate in all aspects of civic life, including accessible voting, contributing to legislative advocacy, and communicating their views publicly.
