Breaking Free from Assumptions: Empowering Individuals with Down Syndrome
Assumptions can shape the way we perceive and interact with people, particularly those with conditions like Down Syndrome. A new awareness campaign is challenging these assumptions and inspiring us to look beyond limiting beliefs.
The thought-provoking Down Syndrome ad produced by an Italian organization, Coor Down, questions the impact of our assumptions on individuals with this condition. It highlights how these beliefs can either shatter false limitations or reinforce them.
One example of such a false limit is the belief that someone with Down Syndrome cannot enjoy an alcoholic beverage, like a margarita. The ad features actress Madison Tevlin, who boldly asserts, “If your assumptions become reality, then assume I can drink a margarita. So you serve me a margarita, so I drink a margarita.”
This concept applies not just to drinking but also to other achievements, regardless of their size or significance. Tevlin encourages us with the ad’s conclusion: “Assume that I can, so maybe I will.”
The ad gained significant traction on World Down Syndrome Awareness Day, March 21. The #AssumeICan hashtag is being used by individuals with Down Syndrome to challenge common assumptions about their abilities and determination.
Tevlin, a 22-year-old actress who starred in the ad, spoke to News Finder about her experiences in challenging stereotypes and celebrating the unique qualities people with Down Syndrome bring to the table.
“When I was born, my parents were told that life would be really hard for me,” she shared. “They were told that I couldn’t talk, walk, dance, model, act, or even marry or drink – anything that’s considered part of normal life. It has been such a joy proving people wrong.”
Tevlin connected with the Coor Down campaign through the National Down Syndrome Society and has been thrilled by the positive response to her ad, which currently boasts 160,000 views on YouTube and is dominating social media feeds.
“I’m just so happy that everyone looks up to me as a role model,” she said. “There are many other Down Syndrome activists and achievers defying stereotypes, such as 17-year-old triathlete Caleb Prewitt or members of the Hijinx Theatre, an inclusive theater company in Wales.”
Down Syndrome is a condition caused by an extra partial or full chromosome. One in 772 babies in the US is born with this condition, making it a relatively common occurrence. It is not a disease or an affliction but rather the way some people are made.
Although Down Syndrome may cause mild to moderate cognitive delays, the National Down Syndrome Society asserts that these issues do not impede individuals’ ability to vote, contribute to their communities, or make decisions about their own lives.
As an actress and advocate, Tevlin embraces her life with Down Syndrome. She believes that overcoming stereotypes allows the full person to shine through and encourages us all to celebrate our differences in unique ways.
“I always say that I have Down Syndrome, and it’s the least interesting thing about me,” she concluded. “We should all celebrate our differences in our own special ways.”
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Unique Abilities of Individuals with Down Syndrome
The “Assume I Can” campaign is a powerful reminder that assumptions can either limit or empower individuals with Down Syndrome. By challenging these assumptions and recognizing the unique abilities of each person, we can create a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute in meaningful ways.
Let us continue to celebrate and support individuals with Down Syndrome as they challenge stereotypes, break boundaries, and prove that their abilities are far more extensive than our assumptions.
Together, let us embrace the power of assuming the best in each other and celebrate the unique strengths and abilities that make every individual special.
