Australians with Down syndrome will share their pride with the world in March, publishing 21 stories over 21 days in the lead-up to World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March 2019.
“The international theme for World Down Syndrome Day 2019 is ‘no one left behind,’” said Down Syndrome Australia (DSA) Chief Executive, Dr Ellen Skladzien.
“Too often people with Down syndrome do not have the same opportunities as their peers because of the stigma associated with intellectual disability,” Dr Skladzien said.
“For World Down Syndrome Day this year, Down Syndrome Australia is tackling the stigma and lack of understanding about Down syndrome in our community.
“We asked people with Down syndrome to consider the question, ‘What Makes Me Proud?’ The answers we received showcase the diverse interests, passions and abilities of people with Down syndrome,” Dr Skladzien said.
The number 21 is significant for the community as Down syndrome occurs when a person has three copies of the 21st chromosome instead of two.
This year's campaign includes stories submitted in a variety of ways.
Some people wrote their own stories; some people engaged support from support workers or family to get their words down. Some people dictated their story and others spoke on camera.
The 21 stories by people with Down syndrome will be available from 1 March.
Follow the hashtag #WhatMakesMeProud or visit http://www.downsyndrome.org.au
