World Down Syndrome Day, celebrated on March 21, holds special significance for the Catholic Association of Propagandists (ACdP) this year. In a powerful campaign titled “Today you congratulate me, tomorrow would you abort me? Don’t you think it’s a little hypocritical?”, ACdP aims to shed light on the alarming practice of selective abortion of children with Trisomy 21.
The campaign features billboards and marquees with the thought-provoking slogan displayed in 64 municipalities across Spain, including major cities like Alicante, Madrid, Bilbao, Malaga, and Oviedo. Through this initiative, ACdP seeks to raise awareness and spark important conversations about the right to life for individuals with Down syndrome.
Accompanying the campaign visuals is a QR code that leads viewers to a poignant video on ACdP’s YouTube channel. In just 48 hours, the video garnered over 120,000 views, indicating a strong public interest in the cause. The video delves into statistics, revealing that a staggering 83% of children prenatally diagnosed with Trisomy 21 in Spain are aborted.
Carmen Sánchez Maíllo, campaign spokesperson and National Secretary for Family and Life at ACdP, emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of individuals with Down syndrome. She challenges societal norms by stating, “People with Down syndrome are as worthy and valuable as any other person, and it is crucial for Spanish society to recognize this truth.”
Beyond questioning abortion policies, the campaign also extends support to families raising children with Down syndrome. Sánchez Maíllo highlights the joy and enrichment these individuals bring to their loved ones, emphasizing the need for genuine inclusivity in society.
Prior to the campaign launch, ACdP collaborated with associations working with individuals with Down syndrome to gain insights and understand their needs. This partnership will lead to a series of interviews and content on ACdP’s communication channels, ensuring ongoing support beyond the awareness day.
As the campaign spreads across Spanish cities, ACdP remains steadfast in its mission to defend life and advocate for justice. This initiative serves as a poignant reminder that every life is valuable, and human dignity is a universal right that must be upheld.