Speech
2011 Frances Clarke Memorial Awards
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Kia ora, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to Government House for the 2011 Frances Clarke Memorial Awards. Jerry sends his apologies for his absence. He had to travel to Saudi Arabia, but wishes you well.
In particular I want to acknowledge: Charlotte Gendal, Kate Young and other members of the Wellington Down Syndrome Association executive; Pam and Forde Clarke, parents of the late Frances Clarke; Ricki Herbert, our guest speaker today; and this year’s Award recipients: Gabriel O’Connor, Charlotte Elliott and Daniel Howard.
This is the first time the Governor-General and I have had the privilege of hosting these special awards. It is also the first time they have been held at Government House since it received major strengthening and refurbishment. I invite everyone to have a look around the House after the ceremony and enjoy its history and beauty.
Today, I would like to speak briefly about Down Syndrome and the significance of these awards.
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome is one of life’s mysteries. It occurs in all races, and almost 150 years after British scientist Dr John Langdon Down described the Syndrome , scientists have been unable to find a definitive cause. It just happens.
Down Syndrome is more common than many people think. About one New Zealander with Down Syndrome is born every week. Unfortunately, people with Down Syndrome, and their families, face many challenges , and not of their own making.
As the recipients of this year’s Frances Clarke Memorial Awards demonstrate, people with Down Syndrome can achieve, and can contribute to our society if we—the wider community—give them a chance.
The Frances Clarke Memorial Awards recognise the achievements of a handful of exceptional young New Zealanders. The awards remind us to see people with Down Syndrome as individuals rather than as a group of people defined by a label or condition.
The recipients of today’s awards are New Zealanders who have refused to be defined by labels. They have achieved at school, in sport and in community organisations and events. To Gabriel, Charlotte and Daniel, I say: congratulations and a very well done.
In conclusion, I want to congratulate the Wellington Down Syndrome Association for organising these awards. I also thank the association for its work on behalf of the people with Down Syndrome and their parents and families.