By Sue-Ann Wayow
PERSONS living with Down Syndrome need to be encouraged rather than limited and be provided with the right tools and opportunities that will allow them to be fully included in society.
This is the message from President Paula-Mae Weekes on the occasion of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on March 21.
The theme for this year is #InclusionMatters.
The President said while Down Syndrome was one of the most common genetic disorders in the world, with an estimated incidence of between 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 1,100 live births globally, there are many misconceptions, stigmas and biases about the condition and the ability of those who live with it to enjoy normal, everyday activities.
In a statement issued over the weekend, Weekes said, “Down Syndrome usually causes physical and mental developmental delays and disabilities, but with the right cultural and institutional support systems, people with the condition can thrive and lead heathy and fulfilling lives.”
Weekes said persons with Down Syndrome should be able to attend school and receive a balanced education, find decent work and function in an environment that caters to people with disabilities and be actively involved in decision-making processes about strategies and policies for people with disabilities.
When given the opportunity, they can contribute meaningfully to the community which, in turn, reap a tremendous benefit and people with Down Syndrome have become entrepreneurs, star employees, models, musicians, artists and powerful self-advocates.
Trinidad and Tobago is among the 164 signatories to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), which in its general principles calls for “full and effective participation and inclusion in society”.
Weekes said, “We can only hope to achieve this goal if we encourage, rather than limit, people with Down syndrome and provide them the avenues and tools they need to participate in and contribute to their community and society.”
The President added, “World Down Syndrome Day is a golden opportunity to learn more about the full inclusion in society of persons with Down syndrome. As we rock our mismatched socks, let us do our part to empower people with Down syndrome to realise their dreams and fulfil their greatest potential.”
To commemorate the occasion, A UN World Down Syndrome Day conference has been planned for Monday at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad Hotel.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s wife, Sharon Clark-Rowley and self-advocate, 12-year-old Rochelle Persad, a local entrepreneur and owner of Rochelle’s Sweet Treats are expected to speak at the event.
