Truth in Advertising
Facebook and blogs have been abuzz with talk of the recently run ads by mega retailers Nordstrom and Target featuring a boy with Down syndrome. The most notable thing, possibly, is that neither company made a big deal about it, and that, my friends, says a lot. It says that he’s just a kid in their eyes, and they didn’t set out to capitalize on what sets him apart from the typical models they use.
Nordstrom ad
Target ad
This actually isn’t the first time Target has run an ad featuring a child with Down syndrome. Check this one out:
I did a quick web search of other ads featuring people with Down syndrome. I’m sure (hoping) there are more out there than what I came up with, but here are a few:
Toys R Us ad
Here’s an old McDonald’s commercial – I actually remember this being run!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2TETZM0o8o
Here’s an article I found about another child model who happens to have Down syndrome:
Little Girl With Down Syndrome Takes Modeling World by Storm
It’s all about inclusion. In every aspect of life. Inclusion is good for everyone. Opening doors and providing opportunities to people with Down syndrome allows them to achieve things that in years past we never dreamed possible. And being exposed to people with differences in everyday situations tears down walls and promotes acceptance.
And that’s the truth.
This makes me smile! Thank you for taking time to touch on it.
Thank you for asking me to!
Cool! I love some of the larger context!