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A new music video featuring young people with Down syndrome accompanies the song “Mums pieder šodiena.” Director Amanda Grīnberga described her vision, stating: “Movie and theater halls unite the most diverse people in shared experiences. But rarely do we share, talk, or even become friends with those sitting next to us.”
“We created the video for Latvian Voices’ new song, ‘Mums pieder šodiena,’ as an invitation to spread joy, even with a simple smile to a stranger who lives right next to us.”
“Today belongs to us, and One can use it to create an inclusive, friendly, and welcoming tomorrow for everyone!”
Latvian Voices has released a new song, “Mums pieder šodiena” (“We Own Today”), inspired by a request from the Down Syndrome Association of Latvia. The track and accompanying visual were unveiled on March 21, 2026, for World Down Syndrome Day. The song encourages listeners to pause, savor the moment, and spread joy.
The song’s music was composed by Laura Jēkabsone, who also co-wrote the lyrics with Jānis Strazdiņš. Jēkabsone described the writing process as “very educational and creative at the same time,” explaining that she received daily facts about Down syndrome for nearly a month, which sparked ideas for the a cappella piece. She noted that the fact that people with Down syndrome enjoy hugging was a particularly strong influence on the song’s positive direction.
According to Velga Polinska, a board member of the Down Syndrome Association of Latvia, this marks the fourth year the organization has collaborated with Latvian musicians and artists to create a song and video for World Down Syndrome Day. Polinska stated, “This is already the fourth year that, celebrating Down Syndrome Day, we are cooperating with great Latvian musicians and artists to create a song and a video.”
The music video was directed by Amanda Grīnberga, who believes the project highlights the unifying power of shared experiences in cinema and theater. The release of “Mums pieder šodiena” adds to a growing trend of artists using their platforms to promote inclusivity and raise awareness for important social causes.
