Norton Honored by National Down Syndrome Society as a “Champion of Change”

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today was honored by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) for her work benefitting the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families at the 2015 NDSS Champion of Change Congressional Breakfast Reception. Norton serves as a co-chair of the Congressional Down Syndrome Caucus. Norton's daughter, Katherine, who has Down syndrome, was the 2014 Global Down Syndrome Foundation Ambassador of the year.

"I am grateful for this this award from NDSS, but it is they who deserve accolades for their work educating Members of Congress on issues so well that they have now achieved landmark legislation for those with Down syndrome and other disabilities," Norton said. "Because of NDSS's advocacy, Congress last year passed and the President signed the historic ABLE Act, which created tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. I was proud to cosponsor the ABLE Act and inspired by NDSS and others to continue to work on legislation to help disabled Americans help themselves. In addition, I had the great pleasure of being presented with my award this morning by one of my own constituents with Down syndrome, Madison Essig, who is on her way toward graduating with a full diploma from Woodrow Wilson High School. I know Madison's accomplishments will inspire many people with disabilities in our city and throughout the country."