The stars came out to escort 18 models with Down syndrome—most from the DC region—down the runway at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s (Global) Be Beautiful Be Yourself DC Gala Wednesday night as the non-profit organization put on a high-style fashion show and fundraiser at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel.
The event, which featured a performance by British singer/songwriter and philanthropist Leona Lewis, also boasted such media notables in attendance as CNN’s Kyra Phillips, Fox News’ John Roberts… and Members of Congress (serving as runway escorts) including Rep. Shelley Capito (R-W.Va.), Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich.), Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.), Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.), Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah), and Rep. Steve Stockman (R-Texas).
DC Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton, whose daughter has Down syndrome, was awarded (along with Sen. Jerry Moran) the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award for support of those with the chromosomal condition.
*Photos credit Erin Scott
