World Down Syndrome Awareness Day 2023
With Us Not For UsThe theme for this year’s World Down Syndrome Day, set by Down Syndrome International, is ‘With Us Not For Us’.
People with Down Syndrome are entitled to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities as others. They should be supported to make choices about their own lives. The views of people with Down Syndrome can only be known if we let the world know.
We invite you to send us a short video to be shown on World Down Syndrome Day, 21st March 2023. We wish to include all ages from pre-school to Post 16+; we appreciate that in the early years, it will, naturally, be the parent/carer making their views known, and we welcome your videos, including your children. Equally, we know that not all views can be verbalised, so it is ok to write down, use signing or an electronic device.
Below are some statements that we have put together for you to download and print off and add your own views. These are just ideas; feel free to use your own.
Deadline for sending your video: Sunday, 5th March 2023
How to take part:
- Feel free to wear your ‘Lots of Socks’ to commemorate World Down Syndrome Awareness Day.
- Film and upload your video by using WeTransfer
- Email to michelle@upsanddowns.net
- Add your email address.
- In the Message, enter “Hello, this is our video for WDSD2023: From your Name.”
- You may need to verify your transfer; WeTransfer will email you a code.
- The videos may take a while to upload due to the size of the file.
- Watch out for your performance on the 21st of March, 2023
- Like and share, share, share
- We will do our best to include all the videos on the day.
- By sending us your film, you agree to the images being shared via our website and social media channels and in the public domain. Video and Photography Consent policy
Instructions for Filming at Home
You can film however you want to; it can be on your phone, iPad or computer and either in portrait or landscape mode.
Positioning – Do not have the camera too close as we might not be able to see you or your statement, likewise, do not have the camera too far away so that we cannot read the statement
Lighting – Home lighting can be tricky so do not worry too much about it, the key is being able to see everyone’s faces. The number one rule is not to have the main light source behind you. Do not place yourself and your family with a window or a lamp behind you because you will just be a shadow on the screen. Some light should fall on your face – so you could position the family facing the window or a lamp or with it to the side of you. Lights overhead should be ok as long as they are not too bright. The ideal set up is a light source directed at you from around the same position as the camera.
If you are not sure, then film yourself in position for a few seconds and watch it back. Check if you can see your face.