This Thursday we mark World Down Syndrome Day. This year’s theme calls upon everyone to end stereotyping the people with this genetic condition.

Stereotypes can stop people with Down syndrome from being treated like other people.

“We get treated like children, we are underestimated and we are excluded. Sometimes we are treated very badly or even abused”, representatives of Down syndrome organizations warn on the World Day’s website.

“Stereotypes are often based on limited information or personal experience. They can be reinforced by the way something is represented in the media or by cultural messages. Once formed, a stereotype can be difficult to change.”

On the website, people with Down Syndrome from all over the world recount their stereotyping experiences.

World Down Syndrome Day, marked yearly on March 21, is a global awareness day officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. It was instituted on December 19, 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly.

In Romania, the Ministry of Family, Youth and Equal Opportunities is organising on Thursday, at the Palace of Parliament, the first edition of the Down’s Gala, which will reward the country’s relevant associations.

What is Down Syndrome

The condition is caused by a supplementary chromosome formed within the 21st chromosome pair in the genetic code.

People with Down Syndrome have various medical problems, but are very loving and know how to enjoy life. International studies have shown that almost all of them declare they are happy and content with the quality of their lives.

Unfortunately, medical progress made in the field of medical testing has led to aborting over 90% of the unborn children suspected of Down syndrome.

That is why the March for Life Romania and the Republic of Moldova constantly promotes messages of support for Down Syndrome babies, their humanity and their right to life.

“We have fewer abilities, but we can offer all our love,” said Anca Miron, a Down Syndrome person, at the Bucharest 2023 March for Life.

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Foto credit: Freepik