Written by: Rtr. Gishali Jayasundara
Why is March 21st is important?
21st of March marks “World Down Syndrome Day” every year. This is a day which is dedicated to breaking barriers and embracing diversity, and empowering voices of individuals with Down Syndrome. Even though this is a genetic condition, this day isn’t about science, it is about the importance of embracing diversity among humans.
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition that happens in approximately one in every 700 births worldwide which affects the usual physical and cognitive development of a human being. Despite all the developmental delays and certain health challenges that they may face, they yet lead diverse and meaningful lives whenever they are supported accordingly.
Back then, individuals with Down Syndrome were taken care of and overlooked carefully and their potential was limited into a box. Today, they thrive in their lives in many ways. Some are earning degrees, some are excelling their careers and some are advocating for change on their own terms. The message of World Down Syndrome Day showcases that the time has come to stop limiting the potential of such amazing people.
True impact of this day comes not only by raising awareness but also through “Inclusion”. What does Inclusion actually mean? It means ensuring that all the individuals with down syndrome are fully embraced in every aspect of life such as education, personal life, social life as well as the career path.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Society tends to assume that the potential of individuals with Down Syndrome is always less than the rest. They believe that they “can’t ” do. The time has come to shift the narrative because the reality of the world is inspiring. Madeline Stuart is a global fashion model with Down syndrome who is changing the fashion world. Pablo Pineda, who is a famous author, actor, and also the first European with Down syndrome to earn a degree from a university. Thereby, do people still believe that they can’t do? Blake Pyron who is a business owner with down syndrome, proving that entrepreneurship has no limits. These are not only just examples, but also the proofs to believe that they can do anything when the right opportunity is given to them,
How Can we make a Difference?
Rock Your Socks
We should try wearing mismatched socks on 21st of march. It shows us how much we appreciate equality and embrace the diversity among humans. Whenever someone starts a conversation regarding socks it is definitely the sign to inject the spirit of inclusion to the human spirit.
Advocating for equal opportunities
When it comes to education, students with down syndrome will thrive in mainstream classrooms when they are accurately facilitated and supported.When it comes to the professional world, corporations must push for hiring policies which ensures diversity among candidates. Nowadays many companies are eager to identify the unique talents and innovative perspectives that individuals with down syndrome will bring to the workplace. When it comes to the community as a whole, people should focus on encouraging public events and programs which are created with inclusivity in mind. True accessibility is about more than ramps and elevators, it’s about belonging.
Change the narrative
The time has come to start using empowering language instead of outdated and conventional descriptions. Before we change the world, we have to change US.
❌ Suffers from Down syndrome → ✅ Lives with Down syndrome
❌ A Down syndrome person→ ✅ A person with Down syndrome
❌ They can’t do that → ✅ How can we make this possible for them?
Use your platform accordingly
Social media has become a powerful weapon which is embedded in every aspect in our lives. For example, sharing stories and posts, showing positive representations and support through hashtags such as #WorldDownSyndromeDay, #RockYourSocks, #InclusionMatters will empower and inspire people.
A world without limits
Just imagine a world where inclusion is the norm, not the exception of society? Where equality is not only appreciated but also actually implemented? That future starts with us. It will only start with us. It will start when we change our attitudes, when we change how we act, and when we start appreciating how we champion inclusion.
On this March 21st, don’t just be aware. Advocate. Be knowledgeable. Be human. Be a part of the movement that sees the potential, not the inability; because when we embrace diversity, we all will rise together, as one.
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