Down's syndrome project promotes black visibility in Westminster

The Black Child Down Syndrome Project was co-founded two years ago by four mothers who identified a significant gap in representation for black children with Down's syndrome. The organisation sought to create a dedicated platform for parents and carers to access advice and engage in discussions distinct from broader disability groups. Danise Bartlett-Grant, one of the co-founders, stated that the project aimed to foster a sense of community among families of African heritage.

Bartlett-Grant explained that the project was initiated due to this lack of visibility, with a focus on showcasing images of individuals with Down's syndrome from the black community. She recalled a personal aspiration to see these children featured on prominent billboards, such as Piccadilly Lights, believing they deserved wider recognition. The organisation's Reflecting Radiance exhibition, which highlighted many of the children supported by the group, was exhibited at Hope 93 Gallery in Westminster and featured a takeover of the iconic Piccadilly Lights display.

The striking images for the exhibition were captured by photographer Misan Harriman, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and social activist. Harriman described the children as "amongst the most important human beings that I have had the honour of photographing." He further elaborated that his motivation for using his camera is to provide a voice to those who may not have one, noting that black children with Down's syndrome represent a "minority within a minority" who have always existed.

Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie, another co-founder, shared that the journey of parenting a child with Down's syndrome can be isolating. She expressed how the project has provided her with a sense of belonging to a supportive community that understands her experiences. Oneness Sankara, also a co-founder, emphasised the project's core mission of visibility, stating that she was unable to find reflections of her family in the wider world when her son was born, and that the project has had a profound impact on her as a mother.

Beyond its exhibition work, the Black Child Down Syndrome Project is actively involved in training healthcare professionals and educators on the intersection of race and disability and its broader community impact. The group also organises events for parents and carers, including poetry writing and book reading sessions for children. The co-founders have expressed gratitude for the recognition received through nominations for prestigious awards.

The initiative has been nominated for a BBC Make a Difference Award for Best Community Project and is also a nominee for the 2026 National Diversity Awards. These nominations acknowledge the significant efforts undertaken by the project founders to establish and maintain this vital community resource alongside their daily lives.