March 21st, 2014 WDSD

March 21st, 2014 marks the 9th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day, and every year, on this date, the voices of individuals with this syndrome and those who support them grow louder. "Health and welfare – access and equality for all", this will be the slogan that will guide this year's activities on this particular date, which was chosen to symbolize the genetic tripling of chromosome 21, a mutation that causes Down syndrome.

The data shows that globally 1 in 800 live births results in Down syndrome. Therefore, this day, which emphasizes their rights, was established in 2006 by the National Down Syndrome Society in America and was followed by many countries afterwards.

The purpose for this day is to raise awareness, give out information on Down syndrome, and promote the rights and needs of individuals with Down syndrome so that they can live with dignity and to be active participants in the community and the society in which they belong.

A resolution to set March 21st as the World Down Syndrome Day was adopted by consensus by the General Assembly of the United Nations in December 2011.

The message of the Secretary General of United Nations Ban Ki-moon for the day is, “in the work environment, stereotypes against people with Down syndrome often show that they are denied opportunities for training and work. In the political and public spheres, individuals with Down syndrome and other persons with intellectual disabilities are often deprived of their right to vote and participate fully in the democratic process.”
However, the best news comes from experts in the field. Almost all agree on one point: if individuals with Down syndrome receive careful medical as well as therapeutic treatment, they can manage to enjoy a long, healthy and independent life and serve their community just like any other individual.