The 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development pledges “no one will be left behind.” With this in mind, we have advocacy work to do to for people with Down syndrome.
Negative attitudes, hurtful stereotypes, exclusion and discrimination still exist today. For this reason, we must spread knowledge about Down syndrome.
One way we do that is through Down Syndrome Day. Every year on March 21 people around the globe come together to highlight their support. In doing so, they also inform the world about the syndrome.
With this purpose in mind, here are 4 ways you can join us tomorrow for Down Syndrome Day — and spread the message!
1. Wear Your Brightest Pair of Socks
To show your solidarity, wear your brightest pair of socks. Then, snap a picture and share it on social media. Make sure you use the hashtag #lotofsocks. Include a short message about why you’re wearing your brightest socks.
For instance, you could post a message such as “I’m wearing my brightest pair of socks to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. In particular, to show my support of equal opportunities for people with Down syndrome.”
2. Share the Moving Video About How People With Down Syndrome Are Overcoming Perceived Limitations
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) celebrated their 40th anniversary this year. They marked the occasion by releasing a moving video about people with Down syndrome not being held back by perceived limitations. In this video, people with Down syndrome show their accomplishments to dispel negative stereotypes about the syndrome.
Share this video on your social media platforms. When you do, include an informative message about it being World Down Syndrome Day. Your message could reference the harmful stereotypes people still have about Down syndrome. The limitations people put on others with Down syndrome are wrong!
3. Find an Event in Your Area and Spread the Word About It!
Across the country and nation there will be events in honor of World Down Syndrome Day. Check out all the events happening near you on the World Down Syndrome Day website.
Make sure you share these events on your social media platforms. Whether you’re able to attend or not, sharing these events will help increase their exposure.
When you share the event, you could include a message about World Down Syndrome Day. For example, you could say “This event is helping spread awareness that people with Down syndrome deserve equal rights and opportunities to live their best lives.”
4. Share Your Story on Social Media
Post a photo that promotes inclusion or illustrates overcoming perceived limitations. Then, include a message that low expectations for people with Down syndrome aren’t just wrong — they’re also destructive. Make sure you use the following hashtags:
#WorldDownSyndromeDay
#WDSD19
#LeaveNoOneBehind
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