Stereotypes are harmful! For people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, stereotypes can stop us from being treated like other people. We get treated like children, we are underestimated and we are excluded. Sometimes we are treated very badly or even abused.
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. Visit the WDSD website (link below) to read testimonials from people with Down Syndrome.
The truth! People are all different. Each person with Down syndrome is different. Each person with an intellectual disability is different. We don’t all act the same way or like the same things. We each have our 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 we are! We are people. Treat us like people.
The above text was shared from the World Down Syndrome Day website. Visit here to learn more ways to take action and to read testimonials from individuals with Down Syndrome.
Believe it or not, socks get people talking! One of the easiest ways to take action is to choose some socks that are going to get noticed on March 21st! They might be mismatched socks or your craziest and most colourful socks, whatever takes your fancy! The idea is to start a conversation, so when people ask you about your socks you can tell them, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome”. And then you can tell them everything you want them to know about Down syndrome! Together we will create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome.
#WorldDownSyndromeDay #EndTheStereotypes #LotsOfSocks