Rome, Italy, Feb 23, 2010 / 00:04 am
An Italian Facebook group that calls for children with Down syndrome to be used for target practice has drawn protest from disability support groups and government officials.
The group page shows a photo of a Down syndrome baby with the word “idiot” superimposed on in, Agence France Presse reports. It proposed a purportedly “easy and amusing solution” to get rid of “these foul creatures” by using them as targets at shooting ranges.
By late Sunday the group had 1,700 members.
Manuela Colombo, the president of a support group for families with Down syndrome, condemned the ad.
“People’s ignorance has no limits,” she told ANSA.
Italy’s Equality Minister, Mara Carfagna, said the group was “unacceptable and dangerous” and promised legal action.
Police action could be delayed because Facebook is based in Palo Alto, California and a lengthy legal process may be required.
One baby in 1,200 is born with Down syndrome in Italy and there are 38,000 people with the condition living there, AFP reports.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA