Gap casts first model with Down's syndrome for Ellen DeGeneres' kids range
The campaign celebrates diversity and has been praised by Hilary Clinton
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Nine year old Kayla Kosmalski has become Gap’s first ever model with Down's syndrome.
She is part of Gap's new collaboration with Ellen DeGeneres, called GapKids x ED, and was one of four girls with a disability to take part in a fashion show in Miami to launch the clothing line.
The event has been launched by the non-profit organisation Changing The Face of Beauty, which works to better represent people with disabilities in the media, including the world of fashion.
In a statement, Gap said their project with DeGeneres is aiming to "encourage girls everywhere to be themselves, do what makes them happy and take pride in who they are".
The clothing line has even been praised by Hilary Clinton for avoiding gender stereotypes.
Kosmalski’s mother, Amy, told US site The Mighty why it’s important that modelling rosters are more inclusive and diverse.
"The [Gap] campaign is just incredible. It's showing the world that our kids are more alike than different and they deserve the same opportunities as the other kids do. Yes, Kayla has Down syndrome, but she's smart and funny and sassy like all other kids,” she said.
Kosmalski isn’t alone in making headlines for helping to make the runway more diverse. In September, 18-year-old Madeline Stuart, who also has Down's syndrome, will participate in New York Fashion Week.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments