Hello everyone we here are Blu Alliance are very excited to share and celebrate with you World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) which is a day of global significance on March 21st. Established by the United Nations in 2012, this day serves as a beacon of awareness and celebration, highlighting the diversity and unique abilities of individuals diagnosed with Down syndrome.
At Blu Alliance Counseling Center, we recognize the importance of creating an inclusive environment where every individual, feels valued and supported. World Down Syndrome Day provides us with an opportunity to amplify our commitment to advocacy and education surrounding Down syndrome. The theme for World Down Syndrome Day in 2024 is a call for people around the world to End the Stereotypes. You can sign up for a newsletter by clicking the link here “World Down Syndrome Day Form” which will share information on how to get involved, provide resources, and give you more information about the End the Stereotypes theme this year.
Understanding World Down Syndrome Day
World Down Syndrome Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a worldwide movement to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals diagnosed with Down syndrome. It’s a day to celebrate the accomplishments and talents of individuals with Down syndrome while also acknowledging the challenges they may face.
We have included an awareness video below from the organization CoorDown that helps end an important stereotype about those diagnosed with Down Sydrome regarding limitations with a message that states “ASSUME THAT I CAN”. You can watch this inspiring video below.
Becoming Allies: Resources for Education and Support
For those seeking to learn more about Down syndrome and how to be effective allies, a plethora of resources are available. The official World Down Syndrome Day website (https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/) serves as a comprehensive hub of information, offering resources to help end stereotypes and provide insight on how best to support those diagnosed with Down Syndrome within our communities and worldwide.
Educational Materials: Access informative articles, fact sheets, and guides to deepen your understanding of Down syndrome.
Personal Stories: Gain insight into the lived experiences of individuals with Down Syndrome and their families through personal stories and testimonials. We have included below the End the Stereotypes video from Down Syndrome International Network for WDSD 2024 which provides awareness on how every individual diagnosed with Down Syndrome has their own unique experience and personality.
Toolkits for Advocacy: Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge needed to advocate for inclusive policies and practices in your community. You can find these toolkits on the websites included within this section. Organizations such as the National Down Syndrome Society (https://www.ndss.org/), orld Down Syndrome Day website (https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/), and the Down Syndrome Association (https://www.downsyndrome.org/) offer a wealth of these kind of resources, support networks, and advocacy opportunities.
Taking Action: How You Can Make a Difference
Knowledge is power, but action is key to effecting change. As allies, there are several ways we can actively support individuals with Down syndrome:
Advocate: Speak up for inclusive education, employment opportunities, and healthcare access for individuals with Down syndrome.
Celebrate Differences: Embrace diversity and promote inclusion in your personal and professional spheres.
Support: Volunteer with or donate to organizations that provide resources and support to individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Educate Others: Share resources and raise awareness in your community to foster greater understanding and acceptance.
On World Down Syndrome Day, let us come together to celebrate the remarkable individuals in our midst who are diagnosed with Down syndrome. I believe this day is a great opportunity to show our commitment to creating a world where everyone is valued, included, and empowered to thrive.
At Blu Alliance Counseling Center, we truly appreciate and want to promote the message of World Down Syndrome day by “Ending the Stereotype” which is a great first step in supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Together, let’s continue to champion diversity, embrace inclusion, and build a more compassionate world for all.
“As Always Blu Specializes In You”
I am the Group Coordinator at Blu Alliance Counseling Center. I contribute to the Blu Alliance Blog where my focus is providing information about therapy in a way that is honest, and relatable. My educational background includes a BA in Psychology from Cal State Los Angeles, and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.