For the first time in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, two young people diagnosed with Down syndrome took on the role of poll workers during the elections. Frederico Augusto da Silva de Carvalho Filho, 25, performed the function as the second poll worker in Section 381, located at Concitel, in the Pitimbu neighborhood of Natal.
Gabriel Santiago Gomes, who is 29 years old, carried out the same activity in Section 264, based at Colégio Master, located on Ayrton Senna Avenue.
Fredinho chose to be a poll worker voluntarily, according to his mother, Milena Rocha. He has been voting since he was 18 and attended the section with enthusiasm. Milena described the moment he arrived and introduced himself to those present at the section.
For his mother, this experience demonstrates that her son is capable of actively participating in social life and playing roles that are traditionally not associated with people with disabilities. She emphasized that he does not just need inclusion, but can also contribute, generate impact, and occupy prominent positions.
Milena added that the family follows every achievement of Fredinho with great emotion, as they believe such experiences are crucial for building a society that values the capabilities of people with disabilities, instead of focusing on the limitations perceived by others.
In Gabriel's case, the opportunity to serve as a poll worker arose after he volunteered with the Regional Electoral Court of Rio Grande do Norte (TRE-RN). His father, Anailson Gomes, reported that Gabriel made his name available and subsequently received the summons to work in the 2026 general elections.
Anailson stressed that Gabriel, at 29, is fully aware of his citizenship and serves as an example of the capacity of people with Down syndrome. The father highlighted that, like any Brazilian citizen, regardless of having a disability, Gabriel is exercising his civic rights and duties.
On Sunday morning, Anailson took Gabriel to Colégio Master, where Section 264 was located. According to him, his son was excited and quickly integrated into the team there, being very well received by the working staff.