World Down Syndrome Day 2021

Greetings to all LiveWorkPlay members, families, staff, volunteers, and supporters in Ottawa and across the world.

My name is Analisa Kiskis and it is my honour to represent LiveWorkPlay in commemorating United Nations World Down Syndrome Day, which is celebrated every March 21.

This event takes place on the 21st day of the 3rd month to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which is the genetic source for Down syndrome.

I would like to recognize Daniel Pinsonneault and Paul Knoll, who have helped us celebrate this special occasion at past family gatherings.

All people with Down syndrome must have full participation in decision-making about their lives. Effective and meaningful inclusion is a core human rights principle supported by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as well as the core values of LiveWorkPlay.

The biggest barrier to inclusion is not Down syndrome, the problem is lack of knowledge by individuals and institutions in our community, and the failure listen and act for the implementation of appropriate thinking and policies.

Together we can change this by supporting and demonstrating that people with Down syndrome are living full lives with authentic roles in their neighbourhoods, workplaces, and community venues.

Please join me by showing support for people with Down syndrome by holding up a peace sign in your right hand and the index finger of your left hand to create a 2 and a 1. Great, please hold that pose! Thank you for helping celebrate World Down Syndrome Day 2021, we will use tonight’s recording to join in the official March 21 celebration hosted by the United Nations and Down syndrome organizations in Canada and across the world.