This month, continuing the “Together Against All” initiative, Rytas Vilnius invites teammates, fans, residents of Vilnius, and the entire basketball community to show their support and tolerance for people with Down syndrome and contribute to their effective integration into society.
Uniqueness is a valued trait in modern society. People with different talents and abilities come together to make society a better place to live. With proper development and integration, individuals with Down syndrome can become full, unique members of our community, helping expand the boundaries of tolerance, share their uniqueness, and reduce social exclusion. To achieve this, they still need our support.
Throughout the upcoming month, during Rytas Vilnius home games, fans will be encouraged to embrace being different, have a little fun, and pay attention to the people and environment around them.
On March 24, during the game against Wolves, Rytas Vilnius invites fans to join the team and administration in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day, observed on March 21, by attending the game wearing mismatched socks. During the game’s halftime, there will be a breakdance performance, and children with Down syndrome and their families will also watch the game.
On April 7, during halftime of the game against Panevėžys Lietkabelis, fans will see a Rytas Dance Team performance prepared throughout the month, featuring girls with Down syndrome – gymnasts from the Vilnius gymnastics club “Skrydis.”
“We have collaborated with Goda and Nikita more than once. We performed together in the 2019 King Mindaugas Cup final with the program ‘This is us.’ Our performance sends a message that everyone is unique, we all have our path, and we should never dim our inner light, even if we don’t fit into others’ expectations,” said Rytas Dance Team director Karina Garifovaitė. “Both girls are gymnasts and compete in various championships, so working with them during training is not difficult. Most of the movements and elements are already familiar to them,” she added. “I believe involving people with disabilities is very important and even necessary. This provides equal opportunities for everyone to share their skills and participate in the community. It is an essential part of human nature. I hope the performance and its message reach everyone.”
Those wishing to directly support the integration and assistance of people with Down syndrome can do so by allocating 1.2% of their GPM (personal income tax) to the “Association of People with Down Syndrome and Their Guardians.” More information can be found here: https://www.saulytes.lt/paremti/