It Was Never Okay: Forward Not Backward
Take Action to Ensure a Better Future for Canadians with Down Syndrome
Lack of funding, exclusion from essential programs, and barriers to full participation in society have never been okay. And in 2025, we refuse to go backward. Canadians with Down syndrome deserve the same access to basic rights and opportunities as everyone else. It’s time for action, not excuses.
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Decreased support in the classroom leads to exclusion and missed learning experiences.
The government must co-design a new funding model for provinces to increase classroom support for students with Down syndrome.
Individuals with Down syndrome have distinct medical needs from birth through adulthood, yet Canada lacks sufficient specialized research and training for healthcare professionals.
Launch a national initiative to expand specialized training and research for healthcare professionals working with individuals with Down syndrome.
Individuals with Down syndrome face inequitable hiring practices, barriers to sustainable and paid employment due to outdated perceptions and restrictive government benefit policies.
Implement a national strategy to protect people with Down syndrome from losing disability benefits when they seek work.
Outdated perceptions about independent living limit housing choices for people with Down syndrome.
Establish a national housing benefit to allow individuals with Down syndrome to access living arrangements that support their independence.
Individuals with Down syndrome face significant barriers to participation in everyday activities across Canada.
Create a Self-Advocate Advisory Council to increase participation for people with Down syndrome in sports, recreation, and the arts.
Rock Your Mismatched Socks on March 21st!
Help raise awareness and start conversations at school, work, and everywhere you go on March 21st! You can get a pair of CDSS mismatched socks from Friday Sock Co., and 100% of the profits will go towards programs for individuals with Down syndrome at CDSS.
Down Syndrome FAQ Videos
The best way to learn about Down syndrome is by listening to self advocates! Please watch and share these answers to the most common questions asked about Down syndrome.
World Down Syndrome Day Resources for Educators
TEACHING PLAN
This will help you lead a discussion focusing on awareness, acceptance and celebrating Down syndrome in the classroom and the community. Our teaching plan includes classroom and individual activities and includes printable handouts.
Duration: 45-60 minutes
About Down Syndrome Presentation
A great resource for WDSD and throughout the year to learn about Down syndrome and how we are more alike than we are different!
Duration: 10 minutes
Présentation À propos de la trisomie 21 (Francais)
Support the Down Syndrome Community in Canada
Make a gift this March to support life-changing CDSS programs. Canadians with Down syndrome look to us every day for answers, resources, and assistance. Help us to provide the programs they need to succeed at every stage of life.