Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month! | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

Acceptance, awareness, advocacy, and inclusion.

132
Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month!
Pinterest

Inclusion, acceptance, advocacy, and awareness – these are the four key words that describe what October is all about. Yes, October is the month that begins the holiday season with Halloween at the end of the month, but that’s only one of the things October is known for. October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the most important part of this month. Even with the abundance of research and many advancements, Trisomy 21 is still commonly misunderstood in society. This month is meant to educate others, celebrate these individuals, and spread awareness about down syndrome.

We look at society today and see so many different types of people – old, young, short, tall – making their abilities present in our society. However, there are some individuals who are ostracized because other people only view these individuals for their disabilities. Why this is the reason October is so important. This month is not about celebrating these individual’s disabilities, it is about celebrating their wonderful abilities that they should have the chance to show off in the world every single day.

As you’re looking around in society, also keep your ears open. As you do, you will hear the word “retarded” thrown around like it’s last weeks’ rubbish. It is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous. It has become a commonality on our society. Not only has it become a commonality, but a politically incorrect commonality in society’s vocabulary. Would you joke around with your friend and call him “retarded” if you knew your friend’s cousin has autism and was being bullied for being developmentally disabled? Would you say the word “retarded” when you’re making fun of your little sibling if you knew your neighbor’s cousin has intellectual disabilities and just wanted to be accepted into society like everyone else? I am hoping the answer is no to whoever reads this, whoever shares this for awareness, whoever comes in contact with someone still using the R-word. It is outright ignorance. Although this term “mental retardation” is now outdated and not societally correct, it is still an offensive term used against individuals who have mental and intellectual disabilities. Words matter. They can be barriers and they can be eye-openers, but they can also deprive people of their individual characteristics and strengthen common stereotypes in society. This is when you must step in. This is why this month is important. Listen to those around you. Stop them. Stop the R-word.

Be wise with your interactions. Keep an open mind. Practice acceptance. Listen to their individual stories and passions. Embrace those passions. This can open doors for the understanding and for the respect of people with intellectual disabilities, ultimately allowing them to grow and lead fuller, more independent lives. Their abilities, passions, and individualism should always have the chance to be shown off in society. We must encourage and assist these individuals to adapt to the social norms and allow for them to share their gifts with the rest of society.

With that, celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Celebrate all of the amazing abilities these individuals bring to our society. And always remember, awareness is key.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
friends
Kristin Buggy

College is supposed to be one of the best times of your life. However, it is also one of the toughest transitions to make. There is so much anticipation and excitement leading up to moving into college. It doesn’t truly hit you until move in day when your parents say their final goodbyes and you see their car drive away. You truly are on your own. I was blessed to meet my best friends within the first week of school. Your college friends are so important and here’s why:

Keep Reading...Show less
13 Real Thoughts Every College Student Has At Some Point
Good Call

There are a few thoughts that go through a college student's mind on a day to day basis. Some of those thoughts come from class, some of then come from when you are bored in class. Here are sixteen thoughts that college students think of on a day to day basis.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Mouse, Cookie, Chaos!

He's going to ask for a glass of milk

84079
mouse with a cookie

One of my biggest pet peeves is when someone does not try to help their self before asking others. How can someone else be expected to help you if you do not first do that yourself? I'm all about helping those that need it when the time comes, however whenever someone does not even attempt to help him or herself first then that becomes a huge problem. As we all have learned, people tend to take advantage of us in one way or another. I am sure we all read this short story when we were younger and it follows that same principle:

Keep Reading...Show less
39 Traits You Know You Have If You're A Libra
Flickr

If you were born between September 23rd - October 22nd, then you are a Libra. Let's be real, Libras are the best because you are the perfect balance of all things in life. Some may find this boring, but they don't know anything about what it means to be all things at once. As Libras, we hold much on our shoulders that no one can understand. These are traits you know to be true if you are a Libra:

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

12 Types Of Drunk Girls You'll See In Every Friend Group

"Getting drunk with your best friends is an experience in and of itself. It takes us on wild and ridiculous adventures with the people we trust with our lives."

2369
friends
Cloud Front

Getting drunk with your best friends is an experience in and of itself. It takes us on wild and ridiculous adventures with the people we trust with our lives. Each one of you plays a vital role in making sure the night goes (relatively) smoothly.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments