World Down Syndrome Day 2024

“Rock your Socks” and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21^st 2024.

You may ask, “why do we celebrate on this day?” and “what is the significance of rocking your socks?” Let’s take a closer look at the significance of 3.21.

Since 2012, the United Nations has been observing March 21^st as World Down Syndrome Day. This is a day to raise public awareness of Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21 as there is an extra copy of the 21^st chromosome. Additionally, this day strives to advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with Down Syndrome.

According to Down Syndrome International (https://www.ds-int.org/Pages/Category/what-is-down-syndrome), Down Syndrome is a “naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement.” Approximately 1 in 800 babies will be born with Trisomy 21, which may result in varying degrees of physical and intellectual disabilities as well subsequent medical issues.

Wearing mismatched socks on March 21^st is a way to get the conversation going and raise awareness for Down Syndrome. Post your mismatched socks on social media using the hashtags #WorldDownSyndromeDay or #LotsOfSocks to share your support.

The theme of WDSD 2024 is “End the Stereotypes.” It is the hope that we can learn to see the truth about individuals with Down Syndrome and see them as more than a disability.

So, save the date! We hope to see you “Rock your Socks” and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21^st. After all, we are “More alike than different.”