2023 World Down syndrome Day Proclamation ceremony

Proclamation ceremony for World Down syndrome Day 2023. The theme for the event is "I MATTER, count me in!" This event took place on March 21, 2023. at 5 p.m. at Nogales City Hall, 777 North Grand Avenue, in Nogales, Arizona.

The event was supported by the Mayor of Nogales Arizona Jorge Maldonado and his City Council members, and many families raising children with Down syndrome from our Santa Cruz County community gathered to celebrate this one day we have a chance to make change.

On World Down Syndrome Day, the Santa Cruz Parent Connection celebrated the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome. They also discussed the importance of providing them with equal opportunities and support. A brief explanation was given of the significance of March 21st, the date on which World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated. A number of parents, siblings, and advocates spoke about the joy and love that people with Down syndrome bring into their lives.

The father of a child with Down syndrome stressed the importance of treating them with dignity and respect. We shouldn't pity them, he said, because they are human beings first. We need more recreational programs for children with Down syndrome in our community, according to a sibling. According to her, these programs will help them develop their social skills and have fun.

Also speaking was Mayor Maldonado, who discussed the importance of advocating for people with Down syndrome. The same opportunities should be available to them as to everyone else, he said. The World Down Syndrome Day celebration wouldn't be possible without the support of everyone who attended. Maria Scholnick, Program Director from the Santa Cruz Parent Love Connection, said that the event aims to increase awareness and promote understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome.

The Santa Cruz Parent Love Connection awarded a certificate of appreciation to the Santa Cruz County Public Library staff for being the most supportive organization for the Down syndrome community. They presented them with a certificate of appreciation.

The event was organized by the Santa Cruz Parent Love Connection, Nogales Arizona councilwoman Liza Montiel, and Mayor Maldonado staffer Judith Armendariz. Santa Cruz Parent Love Connection provides support and advocacy to parents of children with Down syndrome and other special needs. Please contact Maria Scholnick (520) 470-5833 or visit SCPLC on Facebook.