Today, March 21, in adherence to the celebration of the Day of Awareness of the Rights of People with Down Syndrome, the students of the primary and secondary levels of our school actively participated in a day of reflection and learning.
The activity had the valuable presence of the Therapeutic Educational Center of Concepción (CETCO), an institution that provides special education to people with disabilities, young people and older adults. Together, we shared moments of dialogue, questions and discoveries that allowed us to question each other about diversity, normalcy and the richness of our differences.
Why do we use different stockings?
Beyond being a striking visual symbol, the stockings of different colors and designs represent the shape of the chromosomes in the karyotype of Down Syndrome. They invite us to reflect on diversity and the importance of embracing what is different.
What's wrong with the different?
We often look for the "normal", but what is normal really? Days like this challenge us to see differences as a natural part of our existence, accepting that every person, every circumstance, every story is unique and valuable. There is no single way of being or living; there is a range of colors in which we all have a place.
Accept: How do we do it?
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Looking at diversity head on, without running away, denying or rejecting it.
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Learning from her, understanding that each person has a gift and something to teach us.
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Discovering that, on that path of acceptance, we can even find our own life purpose.
From acceptance to celebration
Today we took one more step: we celebrate the difference. In each companion, in their talents, in their particularities, we can see the presence of Jesus and the richness of human diversity. By celebrating what makes us unique, we are moving closer to a world where inclusion is not a request, but a natural reality.
From our school, we reaffirm the commitment to educate in respect, empathy and the valuation of each person. Because we all have the same right to be here, to be recognized and loved, and to walk together in the pursuit of happiness.