March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. I can’t believe there was ever a time that I wasn’t celebrating this awesome day. After the birth of my son, Miles, I found the amazing Down Syndrome community and have loved learning, advocating, and celebrating for him.
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. It was picked to be celebrated on the 21st day of the third month to signify the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down Syndrome. The purpose of WDSD is to bring awareness and education to the world on the value that people with Down Syndrome have and what they can do.
As each year has gone by, I have felt more motivated to bring awareness to this day. After I received a prenatal diagnosis that my baby had Down Syndrome I had so many mixed emotions. After a bit of time had passed, I believe that a lot of my sad feelings were coming from a place of misunderstanding and ignorance. I had not been around very many people who had Down Syndrome. I had very little understanding of it all, so I want to show others how valuable Miles is, how Miles' disability is nothing to be feared, and that differences are what make us special.
Ways You Can Show Your Support
Color it blue and yellow
Down Syndrome awareness is shown with the colors blue and yellow. You can show your support by wearing these colors or using these colors to decorate. Have someone who has Down Syndrome in your life? You could deliver a yellow and blue balloon, decorate a card, drop off a fun treat. Be as creative as you can to show your support, and always have fun with it!
Rock your socks
Find your most colorful and fun socks and wear them! Have your family, friends, and co-workers do the same! Posting on your social media with the hashtags #lotsofsocks and #rockyoursocks and bring awareness, show support, and bring up conversations about Down Syndrome from others who will see it. The campaign came about as some people believe chromosomes kind of look like socks.
Do some educating with books or movies
Now is always a good time to be more inclusive! I have found so many great books and movies that have characters who have Down Syndrome. One of my newer favorite movies is Peanut Butter Falcon. Movies and books are funs ways I can show my kids others' differences.
We would love for you to participate in this important day with us this year! Your involvement encourages those with Down Syndrome to keep being themselves and can send a reminder that they have important roles in our society. Teach someone in your life about the importance of inclusion, and how valuable those with Down Syndrome are!