Today is World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD)
On March 21, 2019, World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated around the world. This event aims to raise awareness about the condition, which is a genetic disorder that occurs when a cell division error leads to an extra copy of chromosome 21. World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.
This year’s theme is “With Us, Not For Us” – and that’s a message we should all carry in our hearts. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that people with Down Syndrome are treated fairly and have equal opportunities with everyone else. The theme is close to the independent message of “Nothing about us without us“
Each year, Down Syndrome International (DSI) develops a theme for WDSD, which reflects a global campaign in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. According to the UN Committee on Rights of People With Disabilities, organizations should be involved in decision-making and policy-making, having the same opportunities as everyone else.
For more information about Down Syndrome or how to get involved visit: www.downsyndrome.ie.