Viral ad campaign challenges perceptions for World Down Syndrome Day 2024 [Video]

People with Down syndrome have a message for the world: “Assume that I can.” An international awareness campaign, launched ahead of World Down Syndrome Day on Thursday, challenges negative biases that people with Down syndrome can face. 

A young woman, played by Canadian actress Madison Tevlin, discusses the low expectations others have for people like her — whether it be going out to bars, education or even dating with a disability.

“Your assumption becomes reality,” she says in the video. “But hey, if your assumptions become reality, then assume that I can.”

The video then shows Tevlin’s character drinking at a bar, learning Shakespeare and living on her own. 

“The message really says a lot,” Tevlin told CBS News. “It’s impactful and powerful to so many people out there in the world.”

Italy’s CoorDownpartnered with the National …