Mar Galcerán made history after she became Spain’s first parliamentarian with Down syndrome, The Guardian reported.

“It’s unprecedented. Society is starting to see that people with Down syndrome have a lot to contribute. But it’s a very long road,” she told The Guardian.

Galcerán joined the conservative People’s party (PP) when she was 18 years old and slowly worked her way up the party ranks.

In May last year, she was added as the 20th name on the list of candidates the PP was fielding in Valencia’s regional elections.

Galcerán took oath in September last year after which she was hailed by Spanish media while others think that she might not be capable of doing the job like other parliamentarians.

It is pertinent to mention that France’s Éléonore Laloux became the first person with the genetic disorder who made it to public office. She was elected a city council member in the northern town of Arras in 2020.

Similarly, Ireland’s Fintan Bray, who also faces similar conditions such as Galcerán, made history after he was elected to a political position in 2022.

However, Galcerán may be the first in Europe to get elected to a regional or national parliament.

“We haven’t heard of anyone else,” said Agustín Matía Amor of Down España. “It’s a huge step forward and an example of real inclusion.”

Galcerán has worked for more than 20 years as a civil servant in Valencia. She also spent four years leading Asindown, a Valencian organisation dedicated to helping families with children that have Down syndrome.

“It’s both great news and a recognition of her work and the many initiatives she was involved in,” said Matía Amor. “It’s a good example of what is possible.”