Association organizes event for World Down Syndrome Day in city capital

The plaza Belgrano was filled with music and color when the association “Todos Juntos” held a public event to mark World Down Syndrome Day, according to an April 1 announcement. The gathering brought together young people from the association and members of the local community for a series of inclusive activities.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed globally every March 21, as established by the United Nations. This year’s theme, “Todos juntos derribando barreras, construimos futuro” (Together breaking down barriers, we build the future), aims to encourage reflection on the social and emotional lives of people with disabilities.

Patricio Carrillo, president of “Todos Juntos,” said: “Es importante para que se pueda comprender qué se siente cuando los excluyen de lugares o cuando se sienten solos porque eso muchas veces atraviesa la persona con discapacidad, el no sentir que pertenece a la sociedad y que sus ámbitos de relaciones son los mínimos como la familia, alguna institución o escuela donde asisten, pero la vida es mucho más que eso.” He added that life involves ongoing efforts toward inclusion.

The event included live streaming activities, dance competitions for TikTok, and a selfie station. Carrillo said: “Aprovechamos para visibilizar las actividades donde niños, jóvenes y adultos, que vienen a la asociación; puedan interactuar con la comunidad. Tenemos un stream en vivo, una parte de competencia de baile para Tiktok y un cuadro para selfies. Es para que la gente se acerque… porque para nosotros eso es fundamental.” He emphasized that interacting with people with disabilities helps break down prejudices.

Carrillo also described initiatives such as workshops for parents titled ‘Derribando mitos’ (Breaking Myths) and plans for a commemorative mural at Belgrano 1351. He said: “Porque la vida es más que ir al colegio o trabajar, nos propusimos generar ambientes de encuentro; fuera de las actividades formales que haya ocio y recreación.” The institution is also supporting Club Las Vicuñas—a recreational club formed after thirty-two years of work—with eighteen current members holding membership cards.

These efforts are part of ongoing work by Todos Juntos to foster genuine coexistence and promote an inclusive culture within society.