Writer to address UN on Down’s syndrome
A MONGOLIAN woman who lives in Scotland is to deliver a powerful address to United Nations delegates in New York.
Uuganaa Ramsay will speak to some of the world’s most powerful people on World Down Syndrome Day today.
The award-winning writer, campaigner and advocate’s infant son Billy had the condition and her memoir Mongol won the Janetta Bowie Chalice Non-Fiction Book Award from the Scottish Association of Writers.
She has been campaigning against hate speech towards people with learning difficulties and disabilities and raising awareness of Down’s syndrome and of the origin of the word Mongol.
But Ms Ramsay admitted the invitation to address the UN came out of the blue. She said: “They invited me to speak a few weeks ago and it was a real surprise. I had always wanted to address the UN to reach many people and get my voice heard.
“It’s World Down Syndrome Day and the UN have organised a side event featuring me and my book. I will be talking for an hour and a half and a lot of important and influential people will be there. I will also be attending the Unicef event.
“It means a lot to me to get such a massive opportunity. It can be very emotional at times because Billy passed away and it’s all related to his memory. What happened has made me a stronger person – more determined, more compassionate and braver.
“It shows if you are focused about something, you can reach more people and make things change.”