In 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations added a new date to their international calendar celebrating Down Syndrome. The date for this global awareness day falls on the 21st day of the 3rd month of the year, signifying the uniqueness of the triplication or trisomy of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down Syndrome. Since then, in countries all over the world, friends, families, and advocates of children and adults with Down Syndrome take the opportunity to celebrate rights, milestones, and abilities of individuals who are often downplayed and left out due to the stigmatization from society.
In celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, Best Buddies Philippines has partnered with SM Cares, the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Down Syndrome International and A Child’s D.R.E.A.M., for a one of a kind photo exhibition featuring 21 individuals, all blessed with an extra chromosome. The exhibit, entitled A Collab in Chrome, will be launched on March 21, 2021, through the KUNSTMATRIX 3D Virtual Gallery. The virtual exhibit will feature portraits captured by renowned beauty photographer, Sara Black.
This year’s World Down Syndrome Day theme is CONNECT, highlighting the importance of being able to continue to connect and be counted amidst the challenges of the pandemic and quarantine living. This is especially true for kids and young adults who have been blessed with an extra chromosome. Through the hard work and talent of every collaborator involved in this event, a new way to connect can now be explored.
Best Buddies Philippines hopes to create awareness on the importance of inclusion and collaboration through this exhibit, and highlight the beauty of individuals with Trisomy 21. It also aims to educate more Filipinos on how Down Syndrome occurs, as well as inform them of the steps to take after receiving a diagnosis.