27/06/2025
Public Statement: Condemnation of Discriminatory Social Media Challenge Targeting Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
We at Great Expectations Private School (GEPS) and Gilead Initiatives alongside advocates for human dignity and inclusion, strongly condemn the recent social media challenge that ridicules individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This trend is not only deeply offensive but also a gross violation of the rights, dignity, and humanity of people with IDD.
It is heartbreaking and unacceptable that such degrading content is being circulated for amusement. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not objects of mockery—they are human beings with dreams, emotions, and rights like everyone else. These videos promote harmful stereotypes, reinforce discrimination, and contribute to the ongoing social exclusion of a vulnerable group in our society.
We are calling on all content creators, social media users, and platforms involved in promoting or sharing this challenge to immediately take down all such videos. We also urge social media companies to take swift action to flag and remove harmful content that violates principles of respect, inclusion, and non-discrimination.
Let it be clear: Disability is not a joke. Mocking anyone because of their disability is not “content”—it is cruelty, and it must stop.
We appeal to everyone—creators, influencers, parents, teachers, and community leaders—to rise against this dehumanizing trend. Let us promote a culture of empathy, acceptance, and dignity for all, especially those who are often marginalized.
Signed,
Directors
Gilead Initiatives are Great Expectations
Advocate for Children, Young Adults & Women with Disabilities
