Special Vilnius residents are reaching out to the city’s residents and visitors “We are also part of this city!”
The Association of People with Down’s Syndrome and their Carers, together with the well-known Vilnius photographer Vincas Alesius, presents the unique social project “I Am Part of Vilnius”.
This project is a photography exhibition aimed at drawing public attention to a socially marginalised group – people with Down’s syndrome – and their desire to be accepted as full members of the city’s community.
Photographer Vincas Alesius has captured the images of people with Down’s syndrome, whose photographs will adorn the fourth floor of the Shopping Centre CUP from 17 March. All the individuals are of different ages and have different life stories, which the project aims to share with both city residents and visitors.
According to the Association of People with Down’s Syndrome and their Carers, not all project participants find it easy to share their stories on such a scale, as their experiences have varied, but all participants unanimously agree that only by raising public awareness can they contribute to building a brighter tomorrow for everyone. Not so long ago, families raising children with Down’s syndrome could not dream of mainstream schools or of their child having the opportunity to work as an adult. Today, these dreams are coming true. And all this is thanks to a shift in society’s attitude; therefore, through this project, we aim to tell our stories and share our dreams, which we believe will also come true, so that people with Down’s syndrome will have the opportunity to live a full life in every corner of Lithuania.
Come along to the exhibition, have your photo taken with different pairs of socks, share the photo and spread the message of diversity and acceptance. You could also win a pair of socks as a gift!
The exhibition opens on 17 March at 16:00.
The exhibition is free to visit until 23 April.
Shopping Centre CUP, 4th floor
