World Fragile X Day shines light on intellectual disability
Shalini Kedia, founder and chairperson of Fragile X Society India, said lighting up India Gate in teal “is symbolic as the topic of intellectual disabilities has been kept in the dark for long”.
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Intellectually differently abled students being trained by mentors during one of their classes. (Image source: HashHackCode) On the occasion of World Fragile X Day, which raises awareness about the rare genetic illness — Fragile X or Martin-Bell syndrome — that causes intellectual disability and autism, India Gate gleamed teal on Saturday.
Shalini Kedia, founder and chairperson of Fragile X Society India, said lighting up India Gate in teal “is symbolic as the topic of intellectual disabilities has been kept in the dark for long”.
Parents of children who suffer from Fragile X were also present at the event and raised concerns. Said Meena Sharma, “My 22-year-old son has Fragile X but he is competent in many tasks. Due to the taboo attached to intellectual disabilities, there aren’t any jobs available for him.”
Pallavi Mehta, whose 15-year-son has the syndrome, said, “The country’s education system is not supportive towards children with intellectual disabilities.”
Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda, who was at the event, said, “I would like to encourage people to spread awareness… everyone has abilities, which is why this is a campaign we all believe in and appreciate.”
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