- Today is World Down Syndrome Day, to recognise, celebrate and advocate for people with Down Syndrome
- The day’s 2024 theme is ‘End the Stereotypes’, recognised at a Down Syndrome WA event celebrating achievements in the Arts
Today is World Down Syndrome Day, a day of global awareness to recognise, celebrate and advocate for people with Down syndrome within our community.
Down syndrome is caused when a person is born with an extra chromosome. People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of 46, which can result in intellectual disability, developmental delay and increased risk of some health conditions.
Disability Services Minister Don Punch attended a celebration yesterday hosted by Down Syndrome WA (DSWA) and heard from Western Australians with Down syndrome who are marking their mark and ending stereotypes in the Arts, specifically acting, dancing and painting.
The event highlighted the 2024 World Down Syndrome Day theme: ‘End the Stereotypes’.
For people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, stereotypes and community attitudes can make them feel undervalued and excluded, with their talents underestimated and unrecognised. The theme acknowledges that all people have their own individual identity, interests, gifts and talents and can make outstanding contributions to society.
DSWA was established in 1986 by a small group of families who had young children with Down syndrome. DSWA plays an important advocacy role representing the needs of people with Down syndrome and their families to government and within the community.
The organisation also provides pre-natal and new parent support, employment services, education support and social supports for all ages, including Playgroup, Kids Club for primary school children, Friends for Life for teens and Aim High for adults with Down syndrome.
DSWA is also leading advocacy service provider for Down Syndrome Regression Disorder,dementia and ageing for people with Down syndrome.
As stated by Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
“I am proud to support World Down Syndrome Day as we recognise and celebrate the achievements of Western Australians with Down syndrome.
“Ending stereotypes for people with Down syndrome is about acknowledging that everyone is different and everyone has their own individual identity, gifts and talents that make a valuable contribution to the WA community.
“I applaud the work of organisations like DSWA in striving to create a better world where all people are fully included in society.”
