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.
Sign The Petition!
Tell the government to stop overlooking the rights of people with Down syndrome.
Sign The Petition!
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Capturing Canada’s Most Urgent Advocacy Issues in the Down Syndrome Community
This new photo series collaboration with photographer Hilary Gauld, “It Was Never Okay: Forward Not Backward”, calls attention to five of the most urgent advocacy issues facing the Down syndrome community today. These issues create unfair barriers for people with Down syndrome, limiting access to basic rights like education, healthcare, employment, housing, and recreation.
We are asking all Canadians to join the call to #ImproveOurSupports this World Down Syndrome Day by signing the petition and demanding that our government prioritizes the rights of people with Down syndrome.
Forward not backward in 2025!
Decreased support in the classroom leads to exclusion and missed learning experiences for students with Down syndrome.
Call on the government to co-design a new funding model for provinces to increase classroom support for students with Down syndrome.
A lack of specialized research and training for healthcare professionals in Canada limits the quality of care that people with Down syndrome receive.
Call on the government to launch a national initiative to expand specialized training and research for healthcare professionals working with individuals with Down syndrome.
Outdated perceptions and restrictive government benefit policies create barriers to sustainable and paid employment for people with Down syndrome.
Call on the government to implement a national strategy to protect people with Down syndrome from losing disability benefits when they seek work.
Outdated perceptions about independent living and financial challenges limit housing choices for people with Down syndrome.
Call on the government to establish a national housing benefit to allow individuals with Down syndrome to access living arrangements that support their independence.
Significant barriers prevent Canadians with Down syndrome of all ages from participating in everyday recreational activities.
Call on the government to create a Self-Advocate advisory council to increase participation for people with Down syndrome in sports, recreation, and the arts.
The government has overlooked the rights and needs of the Down syndrome community for too long. If you agree, sign our petition!
Show Your Support This World Down Syndrome Day
Take The 321 Challenge!
The 321 Challenge is a fun, easy way to get students involved and raise funds to support people with Down syndrome. You’ll have everything you need to get started, from simple, student-friendly fundraising ideas to ready-to-use activities and resources—giving your school the opportunity to make a real impact.
Step up, take the challenge, and plan your school’s fundraiser for March 21. Download the 321 Challenge toolkit below to get started!
Rock Your Mismatched Socks
Help raise awareness and start conversations at school, work, and everywhere you go on 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.
Resources for Teaching Others About Down Syndrome
Share Videos About Down Syndrome
The best way to learn about Down syndrome is by listening to self advocates! Please watch and share these videos that answer the most common questions people ask about Down syndrome.
Teach About Down Syndrome in the Classroom
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
Présentation À propos de la trisomie 21 (Francais)
Share Information about Down Syndrome in a Presentation with Your Peers
A great resource for World Down Syndrome Day and throughout the year to learn about Down syndrome and how we are more alike than we are different!
Duration: 10 minutes
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.