World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day, 21 March, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.

The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.

About Down Syndrome

Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome.

Chromosomes are “packages” of genes in the body. They determine how a baby’s body forms and functions as it grows. Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down syndrome. Down syndrome occurs naturally – there is no known cause.

Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.

Theme for 2024 - End The Stereotypes

What is a ‘stereotype’?

A stereotype is a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like. Stereotypes can be positive, negative or neutral, but they are often inaccurate, or simply wrong! Stereotypes are often based on limited information or personal experience. They can be reinforced by the way something is represented in the media or by cultural messages. Once formed, a stereotype can be difficult to change.

People are all different. Each person with Down syndrome is different. Each person with an intellectual disability is different. They don’t all act the same way or like the same things. Each have their individual identity, interests, likes and dislikes, gifts and talents, just like everyone else. Having Down syndrome or an intellectual disability is just one part of who they are!

Together we will create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities calls for full and effective participation of persons with disabilities. But many organisations exclude people with Down syndrome from taking part in their work. They take decisions For them not With them.

Source : WDSD website