Several people with Down Syndrome have been achieving milestones for the community over the past years. Among those making Latino history is Mexican Ana Victoria Espino de Santiago, a 25-year-old woman from Zacatecas who reached for the moon and got the stars.
With the support of her parents and her own determination, Espino de Santiago has become one of the few people with Down Syndrome to graduate from college. In her case, it was law school. While some men in the same circumstances have achieved the same milestone, she may be the first female to do so, according to a thorough search by the Latin Times.
A female lawyer with Down Syndrome
Born on January 30, 1999, Ana Victoria is the daughter of Marisol de Santiago Ochoa and Jesús Espino Zapata. Her inspiring journey is a testament to her resilience and determination, as she overcame the societal prejudices and academic challenges that the people with Down Syndrome and other disabilities face all through her studies.
"Teachers play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive educational environment. It recommends that educators be supportive, listen to their students and offer additional support when needed," Espino told the newspaper La Jornada de Zacatecas.
To avoid discrimination, Espino completed her high school online, and was admitted to the Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas to study law. There, she encountered an education system unprepared for her specific needs. However, her determination, coupled with the invaluable support of a dedicated shadow professor, helped her navigate the rigorous demands of her legal studies. She credits her "maestra sombra," and aids that accompanies people with disabilities through their education as part of the people that helped her achieve her dream of becoming a lawyer.
For Espino and her parents, her journey through university was not just about earning a degree; it was about breaking down barriers and setting a precedent for others with similar conditions.
More than being a lawyer
Ana Victoria Espino's accomplishments extend beyond the academic realm. Before completing her law degree, she actively participated in various legislative forums, sharing her story and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. These experiences enhanced her understanding of the legal field and opened doors for future opportunities.
Since 2014,she has also been involved in the arts, holding several painting exhibitions. Her talent was showcased at prestigious venues, including the lobby of the Congress of the Union in Mexico City, with her collection titled "Desde mi cielo."
Ana Victoria's achievements have garnered international attention, leading to collaborations with foundations in Spain, Peru, and Chile on strategies to support people with disabilities. She has also received job offers from abroad, highlighting the global recognition of her capabilities and dedication.
Looking to the future, Ana Victoria aspires to become a legislator. She envisions a platform where she can continue to fight against discrimination and improve conditions for people with disabilities. Her preliminary engagements with the legislature show promise for her future in advocacy and policymaking.
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