GQ Magazine: Apologize, be accountable, and stop bullying people with Down Syndrome.

When does a publication become untouchable? Apparently, GQ Magazine believes that they can sell their material while discriminating against people who live with a chromosomal development that slows cognitive ability and creates distinctive physical features. These folks and their families already must confront social challenges and physical ailments that commonly accompany Down's Syndrome. It is at their expense that GQ Magazine would promote their material and sell their magazine.

In an online July article, GQ magazine named Boston as the Worst-Dressed city in the US. But, that wasn't enough. Instead, they thought it was necessary to describe the city's style like this: "Boston suffers from a kind of Style Down Syndrome, where a little extra ends up ruining everything."

Further, they suggested that Down Syndrome was the result of "so much local inbreeding." Not only does this magazine stand behind an article that victimizes diversity, they suggest that Down Syndrome "ruins" the people who live with it. It promotes discrimination and prejudice that is insensitive and irresponsible.

As a widely disributed publication that has material online, GQ has a responsibility not to demonize people with Down's Syndrome.  This article promotes the idea that people with Down's Syndrome are "ruined," that it is something to be feared, and that it is okay to make light of people with Down Syndrome to sell material.

Tell GQ that they must hold their writers and editors accountable for their material, and if they do not, we will.

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