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E-news Issue 230

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Join Facebook Watch Party to honour World Down Syndrome Day

Log into Facebook today (20 March) at 10pm to join a Watch Party hosted by Down Syndrome International (DSI) ahead of the World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on 21 March. Echoing the theme DSI picked for the 2020 WDSD, “We Decide”, the virtual programme has lined up people with Down syndrome to make videos where they share their insight and experience around the topic of inclusive participation – the idea that all people with Down syndrome should be empowered to fully participate in making decisions that affect their lives. Those joining the watch party will be able to comment and chat with each other.

The WDSD was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2011. The date, 21 March, signifies the triplication of the 21st chromosome that defines Down syndrome. According to the United Nations, an estimate of 3,000 to 5,000 children are born every year with the condition, which has effects on learning styles, physical characteristics and health. With timely intervention, adequate health care, inclusive education and other community-based support systems, people with Down syndrome can fulfil their potential and enjoy a great quality of life like everybody else.

In Hong Kong, NGOs such as Hong Chi Association and The Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association provide a variety of support services for people with Down syndrome and other forms of intellectual impairment, as well as their families and carers. The Hong Chi Kwong Fuk Wai Yin Workshop, for instance, equips trainees with floral arrangement skills. Their works have appeared at social and corporate events alike, and earned lavish praise from clients across industries. Check out the documentary Let the Talents Bloom produced by the EOC and see for yourself how these floral artists upend stereotypes and brighten up not only the venues they decorate, but also their own lives.

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