On March 21st, World Down Syndrome Day 2024, Portobello Institute joins the global community in advocating for the end of stereotypes surrounding individuals with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities.
This year the theme resonates with a simple yet profound message: "End the Stereotypes."
Empowering Inclusive Education at Portobello Institute
Down syndrome affects approximately one in every 444 births in Ireland, with an estimated 7,000 individuals diagnosed with the condition.
Despite its challenges, individuals with Down syndrome exhibit a diverse range of capabilities and strengths. As we commemorate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, it's crucial to recognise the importance of inclusive education in unlocking the potential of every individual, regardless of ability.
As part of the campaign, the powerful video featuring Madison Tevlin below has had a major impact online worldwide and is well worth watching.
Dr Marguerita Magennis, Course Coordinator of Masters in Early Childhood Studies and Masters in Inclusive Education and SEN at Portobello Institute, emphasises the significance of a capabilities-based approach to education in promoting the rights and well-being of individuals with Down syndrome.
"By fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and supports each child's unique strengths and interests, we can create a more equitable and compassionate society.
"The modules highlight the importance of building awareness around encouraging everyone to achieve to the best of their ability, rather than assuming that due to a diagnosis one child or young person might not be able to engage.
"It is through the capabilities approach that we offer a comprehensive framework for supporting wellbeing and inclusion. Unlike traditional welfare approaches that focus solely on providing basic needs, the capabilities approach emphasises enhancing individual capabilities and offering opportunities to all, to lead a fulfilling life.
"For individuals with Down syndrome, this means recognising their unique strengths, abilities and potential, rather than defining them by any limitations they might have. This involves providing access to education, healthcare, employment, opportunities, and social participation, while also addressing the specific challenges they may face in these areas," she said.
Education is a crucial aspect of the capabilities approach for individuals with Down syndrome. It involves inclusive education practices that accommodate diverse learning styles and provide necessary support services.
Social inclusion is also a fundamental aspect of the capabilities approach. It involves creating inclusive communities that value diversity and provide opportunities for social interaction and cultural participation.
Join us in advocating for inclusive education and empowering individuals with Down syndrome to thrive and succeed.
Understanding 2024’s Theme: ‘End The Stereotypes’
What is a stereotype?
It's a fixed notion or preconceived idea that people hold about individuals or groups. These ideas can be positive, negative, or neutral, but they are often inaccurate or just wrong.
Stereotypes typically stem from limited information, personal experiences, or the way something is portrayed in the media and culture. Once formed, stereotypes can be incredibly challenging to change, perpetuating harmful attitudes and behaviours.
The Harmful Impact of Stereotypes
Stereotypes don't just exist in the realm of thought; they have tangible consequences. For individuals with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, stereotypes can lead to unfair treatment, underestimation, exclusion, and even abuse.
When society views individuals through the narrow lens of stereotypes, it denies them their humanity and individuality, stripping away their right to be treated with dignity and respect.
The Truth: Embracing Diversity
The truth is clear: people are diverse and multifaceted. Each person with Down syndrome or an intellectual disability is unique, with their own identity, interests, talents, and quirks.
They are not defined solely by their condition but are individuals deserving of recognition and acceptance. By recognising the humanity of individuals with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, we pave the way for genuine inclusion and equality.
A Call to Action: Treatment As Equals
As we mark World Down Syndrome Day 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to ending stereotypes and promoting acceptance and inclusion for all.
Let us challenge ourselves and others to see beyond labels and embrace the rich diversity of humanity.
Together, we can create a world where everyone is valued, respected, and treated as equals.
Let us not just talk about ending stereotypes but take tangible steps towards making it a reality in our communities, workplaces, and beyond.
Join Us
We invite you to join us in this important conversation. Share your experiences, insights, and aspirations for a world free from stereotypes. Together, let's amplify our voices and advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can end the stereotypes and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Join the Global Movement for World Down Syndrome Day 2024
World Down Syndrome Day, observed annually on March 21st since its official recognition by the United Nations in 2012, is a powerful platform for the global Down syndrome community to advocate for rights, inclusion, and well-being.
Through worlddownsyndromeday.org, coordinated by Down Syndrome International in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society and the Down's Syndrome Association, individuals, families, and communities can access resources, participate in events, and show support for the cause.
Together let's unite our voices, challenge stereotypes, and foster a world where every individual regardless of ability, is valued and included.
