“Assume That I Can” campaign challenges stereotypes and celebrates potential

Today marks World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated to raising public awareness and advocating for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with Down syndrome. This year, the Canadian Down Syndrome Society, in collaboration with CoorDown, has launched a significant international awareness campaign titled “Assume That I Can.” The campaign is a powerful call to action aimed at challenging the stereotypes, biases, and low expectations that individuals with Down syndrome often face, which can negatively impact their lives.

The cornerstone of this year’s campaign is the film “Assume That I Can,” featuring Toronto native Madison Tevlin, a young woman with Down syndrome. In the film, Madison confronts the low expectations placed upon her by others and advocates for a reversal of perspective, urging society to recognize and support the potential of every person with Down syndrome.

Community celebrations and events have taken place across southwestern Ontario to honour World Down Syndrome Day. For the first time, the Guelph Public Library partnered with the Waterloo Wellington Down Syndrome Society to host an inclusive story time session. This event highlights the importance of community engagement and support for individuals and families affected by Down syndrome. Attendees engaged in various activities, including reading and colouring, to celebrate the day.

The significance of March 21st for World Down Syndrome Day lies in the numerical symbolism – individuals with Down syndrome have an extra (third) chromosome 21. This year’s celebrations have adopted the motto “Assume that I can, then maybe I will,” emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals with Down syndrome to reach their full potential.

The KW Titans basketball team also participated in the day’s celebrations by holding a special event at their game. Team owners Kate and David Schooley and Titans Point Guard Juwan Miller highlighted the importance of equality and community support in their messages, demonstrating the broader societal commitment to inclusion and celebration of divers-abilities.

An extraordinary initiative in Portsmouth saw the creation of a giant pair of socks, each measuring more than 3 meters, knitted by Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association supporter Megan Crook. The “Lots of Socks” theme encourages people to wear odd socks to raise awareness for Down syndrome. This effort not only aims to set a record but also symbolizes the wide-reaching impact and creativity of awareness campaigns.

As World Down Syndrome Day continues to garner attention and support, the call for greater rights and opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome remains paramount. Events across the UK and at 10 Downing Street, where campaigners including Ken Ross and his son Max represented the Portsmouth association, emphasized the ongoing fight for inclusivity and meaningful change.

World Down Syndrome Day is a reminder of the strength, resilience, and potential of individuals with Down syndrome. Through campaigns like “Assume That I Can” and community efforts worldwide, society moves closer to an inclusive future where every person is recognized for their abilities and potential.