Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), sitting centre, said World Down Syndrome Day highlights the unique abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome, fostering a culture of acceptance and appreciation for diversity in the communities. Photo: GIS

Persons in the [British] Virgin Islands were encouraged to wear mismatched socks as the territory observed World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2024. Photo: GIS

According to Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), World Down Syndrome Day highlights the unique abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome, fostering a culture of acceptance and appreciation for diversity in the communities.

“World Down Syndrome Day serves as a platform to challenge stereotypes, promote acceptance, and advocate for equal opportunities for people with Down syndrome. Observing this day fosters a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued and empowered to reach their full potential,” Hon Wheatley stated, according to a press release from Government Information Services (GIS) on March 21, 2024.

‘Break the stigma’

Meanwhile, Director for Disabilities Services Ms Crystal Estridge said the public should acknowledge the agency and independence of persons with Down syndrome as this would help to break the stigma.

“A lot of people view persons with Down syndrome as being incapable or not having any agency. So, what we do with our clients is we build up their skills for them to go out in the community. We have various programmes such as our job placement programmes. We try to teach life skills such as cooking, laundry, ironing, to teach them independence. So, we ask the public to support our clients and not label them and not stigmatise them as incapable or unable,” Estridge stated.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed annually on March 21, and this year’s theme was #EndtheStereotype.

Down Syndrome is caused by a chromosome abnormality and, according to the United Nations; the estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 1,100 live births worldwide.