COVID-19: Call for Actions to Save Down syndrome Community in Bangladesh

Down syndrome is not a disease or birth defect. It is, rather a blessing. Children born with an
extra chromosome have unique talents that are not acknowledged. People with Down
syndrome have ability and potentials which are not also recognized in most situations. With
proper care, assistance from the community and timely therapy and care- these children having
additional chromosome can be grown up as a normal human being. But due to lack of
awareness, negligence from family and exclusion from the community – these children cannot
develop their full potentials which are major threat for their proper development and
nourishment.
Down syndrome society of Bangladesh- a national platform for people with down syndrome, is
working across the country to ensure Rights, Social inclusion and employment opportunities for
people with Down syndrome in the country with its very inception as a socially committed
philanthropic organization. DSSB has tied-up with many renowned national and international
organizations to broaden and enhance its activities for their development and well-being. It is
now recognized as country spokesperson of Down syndrome international (DSi) and inclusion
international, UK by achieving affiliation of these two prominent organizations in the world.
The whole world is now facing the crisis of Covid-19. Bangladesh is not an exception in this
respect. The Corona Virus has spread to almost every region of the country in a very limited
time with thousands of infections and many casualties and death at the grassroots and national
level. In the prevailing pandemic and lock-down situation all over the country, children, adults
and people with Down syndrome are at highest risk and vulnerability due to their fragile health
condition and chromosomal attributes. In international level many organizations are working
intensively to ensure protection and livelihood for these people. But in our country, till now, in
the marginalized community, no collaborative steps is taken so far for their safeguarding in
government or private level. Therefore, it is high time to come forward to assist these
vulnerable people in the current catastrophe.
Communication and consultation with these family show that the low-income families of
people with Down syndrome are passing very miserable condition at family and community
level due to financial hardship, lack of available food stuffs and mental illness.
Our holy month of giving Ramadan has started already. Holy Ramadan teaches us the spirit of
giving and assistance for the poor and distressed neighbors and community members. In this
month of sacrifice and brotherhood, all kind hearted and rich people should come forward to
help them for their survival in this critical time of the nation. Moreover, corporate bodies,
national and international charities can play a vital role to alleviate their sufferings and
struggles. All should keep in mind that these people are also an integral part of the society and
inclusive sustainable development of the country is not possible leaving them behind.
Our little amount of support, collaboration, and goodwill can make their daily life happy and
comfortable. Spirit of holy Ramadan also teaches us to act for others.

Let us all come forward and extend our kind support for this vulnerable community to ensure a
better life for them so that they can actively contribute to develop the country with their
talents and skills.

Writer:
Coordinator – Programme
Down Syndrome Society of Bangladesh