World Down Syndrome Awareness Day in Ukraine
On March 21, people in Ukraine and around the globe commemorate World Down Syndrome Awareness Day.
In Odessa, there are over 150 individuals with Down syndrome. To raise public awareness and combat stereotypes, a photo exhibition showcasing families from Odessa with children who have this genetic condition was organized at the city's social service center.
The event was opened by Elena Kytayska, the director of the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odessa City Council, who wished everyone peace and patience.
Lidiya Ostrohladova, a mother of two children with Down syndrome, expressed her gratitude for the attention and support towards the issues faced by people with disabilities.
Representatives from the organizations “Guarantee of the Future,” “Special Children,” and “Healthy Society” also participated in the event.
At the end of the meeting, representatives from the Department of Labor and Social Policy presented special gifts to the guests.
Additionally, staff from the social protection departments of Odessa joined the global flash mob “Colorful Socks,” attaching an odd number of colorful socks to their outerwear as a symbol of support for individuals with Down syndrome.
