GLOBAL Down Syndrome Foundation to Honor Rep. DeGette, Rep. Aderholt, and Tucker Emry at Its Annual AcceptAbility Gala

(GLOBAL) is honoring Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-AL), who will receive GLOBAL's highest honor, the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Awards

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL) is honoring Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-AL), who will be receiving GLOBAL’s highest honor, the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Awards, for their work in support of those with Down syndrome, during its annual AcceptAbility Gala. GLOBAL Ambassador Tucker Emry, an actor and self-advocate from Baltimore, will also be recognized. The gala is an inspiring fundraiser that will feature a dance performance by Annapolis’ Robert Wallop and other DC-area dancers from the inclusive dance team, RhythmXpress, as well as a performance by Multiplatinum Artist and Actor Phillip Phillips. This year’s gala is honouring the memory of the beloved and long-time GLOBAL supporter, Cornelia Stephens.

DeGette and Aderholt have been instrumental in advancing legislation to support individuals with Down syndrome. DeGette, a champion for accessible healthcare and a staunch supporter of scientific advancements, has been a vanguard in steering critical legislation like the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Act. This groundbreaking bill, a top priority for GLOBAL and the Down syndrome community, aims to expand access to habilitative services and broaden the scope of covered treatments for individuals with Down syndrome.

Aderholt, a key ally of the Down syndrome community, has been instrumental in securing critical funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to propel research in Down syndrome. His steadfast commitment has led to a substantial increase in the NIH Down syndrome research and medical care budget. This marks a significant turning point after years of this genetic condition being among the least funded.

The AcceptAbility Gala will bring together policymakers from both sides of the aisle, key scientists from the NIH, philanthropists, corporate sponsors, and the Down syndrome community. It will be a celebration of the major new federal research funding increases and an opportunity to educate Congress and the community about the transformative DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2024 that will elongate life and improve health outcomes for people with Down syndrome.

The gala will also feature a special message from NBC Political Analyst and Capitol Correspondent Chuck Todd, and greetings from Baltimore-based actor and GLOBAL Ambassador Tucker Emry. Emry, a self-described “huge movie buff,” is currently attending the University of Baltimore in pursuit of a degree in Political Science.

Those in attendance will enjoy a vibrant performance by Multiplatinum Artist and Actor Phillip Phillips, known for his hit song "Home," which reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned triple-Platinum status from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Phillips, a Louisiana native, rose to fame as the Season 11 winner of the popular television series "American Idol."

The evening will also include a dance performance by Annapolis’ Robert Wallop and other DC-area dancers from the inclusive dance team, RhythmXpress.

Those planning to attend the gala should contact [email protected] for any questions.