World Down Syndrome Day: The Hiring Chain

To celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (Sunday 21st March 2021) CoorDown launches its global awareness campaign 'The Hiring Chain'. Their message to employers all over the world is that hiring a person with Down syndrome not only changes the life of the person concerned, but can trigger a virtuous circle of new opportunities for everyone. Award-winning artist Sting performs the original song 'The Hiring Chain', which is the focus of the campaign video. The punchy, joyful lyrics come to life on screen and bear witness to the 'virtuous' chain of inclusion in the workplace. In the first scene, a young woman named Simone is at work at the bakery, showing customers her skills. One of these customers is a lawyer who is impressed and decides in turn to hire a young man and give him a chance. From there, a chain reaction ensues: the young men and women featured in the video and song show that the more people with Down syndrome are seen at work, the more they are recognised as valuable employees. Challenging low expectations and prejudices, thus creating opportunities for new hires. On World Down Syndrome Day 2021, CoorDown takes up the challenge of the pandemic and the social crisis to affirm that job inclusion is not only a right to be guaranteed now more than ever for every person, but it brings benefits in the workplace and in society at large. Employers inspired by our film should visit www.hiringchain.org (created by Adoratorio). They will find the contact details for organisations around the world that can provide information, support and encouragement to get people with Down syndrome into their workplace. There is also in-depth information on employment and answers to frequently asked questions about creating an inclusive workplace. Why Work Matters. Being more independent, contributing to society, having your own income, learning new skills, meeting new people, and feeling valued. People with Down syndrome want to work for the same reasons as anyone else. But most people with Down syndrome face barriers and prejudices, lack of opportunities, low expectations, and stereotypical attitudes. Debunking misconceptions about their potential and the benefits of an inclusive workplace are the stories and experiences of companies, employers, and employees. Every person with Down syndrome can work according to their abilities. The goal is to find a role that fits each individual so they can do their job successfully. When given the right opportunity, people with Down syndrome can achieve great things and have a positive impact on colleagues, customer satisfaction, culture, and motivation throughout the company. Diversity strengthens all workplaces. A virtuous cycle that spreads into the rest of society. 'The Hiring Chain' campaign - available on CoorDown's YouTube channel was created in partnership with the New York-based creative agency SMALL with the invaluable support of Indiana Production, an Italian-based production company. The original song, performed by Sting, was composed by Stabbiolo Music.