The last thing that any of us want is to be underestimated. But that is exactly what so many of us do when we find out that someone is disabled. That is why, for World Down Syndrome Day, the National Down Syndrome Society released a powerful ad. It stars Madison Tevlin, a model and actor with the disability herself. It starts with her addressing a bartender, noting that most people assume she can’t drink alcohol.
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From here, Madison goes on to list other similar activities and milestone. They have one thing in common: People assume that someone like her could never accomplish them. This includes living on her own, learning Shakespeare, and going out to party. But in assuming these things, these beliefs become a “self-fulfilling prophecy.” Watch the powerful video for yourself below (Content Warning: NSFW).
@ndssorg Our negative assumptions about people with Down syndrome can lead us to treat them in such a way that these assumptions becomes reality. In sociology, this is called ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’. 👎 Let’s try to reverse the perspective. By having positive assumptions about people with Down syndrome, we can give them more opportunities at school, in the workplace, in sports and in social life. And maybe these assumptions will eventually become a fulfilling reality. 🙌 #AssumeThatICan Join us this #WorldDownSyndromeDay in our efforts to #EndTheStereotypes by sharing this video! Head to the link in our bio for other ways that you can get involved in #WDSD24 ♬ original sound – National Down Syndrome Society
“Our negative assumptions about people with Down syndrome can lead us to treat them in such a way that these assumptions becomes reality,” the organization writes in the caption. “In sociology, this is called ‘self-fulfilling prophecy.'”
By recognizing the assumptions we make about others, based on their disabilities or something else, we can learn to modify our behavior. In turn, more folks like Madison will get the encouragement, resources, and support needed to aid them in living their most authentic lives!
Powerful Ad Highlights Why We Shouldn’t Underestimate Folks With Down Syndrome
Although this ad is especially topical on a day like World Down Syndrome Day, the message it holds is oh-so relevant every day of the year.
“Let’s try to reverse the perspective,” the organization continues. “By having positive assumptions about people with Down syndrome, we can give them more opportunities at school, in the workplace, in sports and in social life. And maybe these assumptions will eventually become a fulfilling reality.”
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here!
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