World Down Syndrome 2023 – Time For More Visibility

March 21st 2023 marks the official 16th World Down Syndrome Day and the EU for Trisomy 21 network will of course be hosting our own unique celebration.

Take a look at our official report here.

Online Event

This year we will start our celebration by hosting an online event on the 16th of March with the title “time for more visibility” as part of our “the Future is ours” project. This event will feature self advocate speakers from all over Europe, talking about how visibility alone can make a huge difference in breaking down (syndrome) stereotypes in people’s minds. All of our speakers work in inclusive restaurants or coffee shops and will tell us about their lives and the conversations they have with their customers. 

Breaking Down Syndrome Stereotypes One Cup at a time

And then on the 20th and 21st of March, inclusive coffee shops and restaurants who have employees with Down Syndrome will be serving coffee in places of political power such as the European Parliament, national governments, senates and parliaments, regional assemblies, and municipalities. 

This will give decision makers from all over the EU the opportunity to talk to people with Down Syndrome and learn to see things from their perspective. This is especially important this year as we prepare for the EU parliament elections of 2024 and how many people with Down Syndrome will be allowed to vote for the first time. 

To make our celebration a success, EU for Trisomy 21 will be collaborating with local coffee houses that employ people with Down syndrome and vocational schools. We will also be working with local, regional, national, and international politicians to ensure that this celebration reaches as many people as possible.

We already have people celebrating all around Europe that you can join as a volunteer or you could organise your own event in your city. Feel free to contact us via contact@EUforTrisomy21.eu

We hope that you will join us in this celebration and help us promote a better image of people with Down Syndrome among politicians and the wider public. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of people with Down Syndrome and promote a more inclusive society for all.