In December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared 21 March World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD).
On this day, people with Down syndrome and those who live and work with them throughout the world organise and participate in activities and events to raise awareness. Together we create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with Down syndrome.
The project will be launched at the 13th World Down Syndrome Day Conference at the United Nations in New York. We will support self-advocates from around the world to speak up about their experience of health equity.
The health equity project will involve gathering evidence about the health equity of people with Down syndrome around the world. We will use this evidence to advocate for changes in policy and legislation to promote health equity.
The DSi team is also responsible for the official WDSD website. Here we share global events and activities along with an annual message that we ask supporters around the world to share. For WDSD 2024, this message is End The Stereotypes.
This is what we are doing:
We are proud to have supported our network member, CoorDown, with their international awareness campaign, 'Assume That I Can'. Read more
Join us at the United Nations in New York as we launch our new Health Equity project. Hear from self-advocates, supporters, government and UN officials and NGO representatives as they share knowledge, experience, and good practice. Read more
We are working with Humanity & Inclusion to find out more about health equity for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, so we know what needs to change. Read more
Our WDSD video explains how WDSD came about and why it is important to mark this day. Read more
By raising money for DSi, you support our work towards a more inclusive society for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities. Read more
Request a FREE digital copy of our 'Down syndrome explained' pack. Read more
If you like what you have seen, why not sign up to join our network? Read more
Buy our official 'Lots Of Socks' to support our work. Read more
We need your support to continue our work improving the lives of people with Down syndrome. Donate today. Read more
Visit the World Down Syndrome Day website to read the global message for 2024 and find out how you can get involved. Read more