On March 20, 2025, community engagement takes center stage in Toluca, as the Municipal DIF System executes a series of events aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusion for individuals with Down Syndrome. Kicking off at 10:00 AM in Plaza González Arratia, attendees can expect a day filled with artistic performances, testimonials, and the unveiling of a mural dedicated to diversity and the valuable contributions of individuals with this condition.
In a move designed to elevate public consciousness, the Municipal DIF aims to foster respect and understanding towards people with Down Syndrome, highlighting their autonomy and independence. The centerpiece of the day will be the unveiling of a mural, which represents the creativity and expression of individuals within this community.
Among the planned activities, paradance performances and a theatrical play will showcase the artistic talents of those with Down Syndrome. These creative expressions intend to underline their unique abilities and roles in society, allowing for a richer dialogue about inclusion.
In another key component, a testimonial forum will be held, providing a space for mothers of patients from Rehabilitation and Social Integration Units (URIS) and therapists to share their reflections and experiences. Through this dialogue, the DIF hopes to foster an exchange of experiences that strengthens inclusion initiatives. This forum is not just an opportunity for sharing; it serves as a reminder that the voices of the families of individuals with Down Syndrome are essential in the fight for equality.
On a broader scale, Club América also takes part in the observance of World Down Syndrome Day by celebrating the accomplishments of its inclusive football team. The team made headlines in 2024 by clinching significant victories at prestigious tournaments such as the 'Un Fin Especial' in Poza Rica, Veracruz, and the 'Torneo Nacional Gallos Smiling' in Querétaro. Their success continued into 2025, bringing home yet another championship from Poza Rica.
The commitment to inclusion extends beyond these events. Club América emphasizes that in sports, limits do not exist for those with Down Syndrome, and strives to promote visibility in sports as a crucial element on a daily basis, not just during special occasions.
In a similar spirit, the railway company Renfe is rolling out a series of initiatives to promote accessibility and inclusion correlated with World Down Syndrome Day, scheduled for March 21, 2025. Among these initiatives is the launch of a video podcast series titled 'Conversaciones para la Inclusión', featuring discussions with representatives from Down España. This platform aims to amplify the voices of individuals with Down Syndrome and their experiences in society.
During the first episode, Christina Isabel Domínguez, a member of Down España, expressed the significance of this day, stating, “March 21 is very important because it gives value to all people with Down Syndrome. We are part of a society that often overlooks us, but we are all equal.” Such statements serve as a powerful reminder of the need for ongoing efforts towards inclusion and representation.
The cooperation between Renfe and Down España has been long-standing, focusing on making train travel more accessible for those with Down Syndrome. Through various initiatives, they seek not only to increase understanding of the needs of these individuals while traveling but also to teach them about the train system, thereby creating an inclusive transport environment.
Additionally, the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, visited Plena inclusión España, engaging with individuals with Down Syndrome and their families shortly before World Down Syndrome Day. The visit focused on the commitments outlined by Plena inclusión, which aids over 150,000 individuals with disabilities in Spain, emphasizing the importance of security, cognitive accessibility, and societal participation.
Grande-Marlaska's discussion with Plena inclusión's president, Carmen Laucirica, revolved around the agreements signed that advocate for broader rights and easier access to essential services for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The minister applauded the organization's efforts to ensure full citizenship and participation in community life for all individuals with disabilities.
In promoting civic engagement, Plena inclusión has run the 'My Vote Counts' campaign since 2014, making elections more accessible for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This initiative seeks to simplify election processes, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in democracy, which is central to the inclusion ideology.
The importance of these initiatives cannot be overstated. They highlight the societal shifts towards recognizing the rights of individuals with Down Syndrome and other disabilities, creating pathways for their autonomy and engagement. As society reflects on these discussions around World Down Syndrome Day, the focus on inclusion serves not only as a reminder of achievements made by individuals but also of the work still needed to be done. The collective efforts of local entities, sports organizations, and national leaders showcase a unified approach towards fostering a comprehensive culture of inclusivity.
