Like every year, we celebrated World Down Syndrome Day 2019 on the 21st of March.
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness event, which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. Interestingly, the date for WDSD – the 21st day of the 3rd month – was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
The official #LotsOfSocks onWorld Down Syndrome Day 2019
Each year, Down Syndrome International creates a new official #LotsOfSocks design. The socks are subsequently sold around the world to raise awareness and spread the word. In 2019, for example, over 32,000 pairs were sold!
Like many other companies and individuals, the Big Wipes team got involved in World Down Syndrome Day 2019. We all wore brightly coloured, mis-matched socks and took pictures and videos. These were then posted on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, using the hashtags #LotsOfSocks, #WorldDownSyndromeDay and #WDSD19.
#Leave No-One Behind
The global community does not only celebrate Down’s syndrome by wearing the socks. World Down Syndrome day also allows focus on a particular issue. This year for instance, the global theme was “Leave no one behind”. All people with Down syndrome must have opportunities to live fulfilling lives. They need to be included on a full and equal basis with others, in all aspects of society.
During the March awareness week, The Down Syndrome Association (DSA) joined DSi (Down Syndrome International) and other organisations, families and communities around the world. The aim was to celebrate the achievements of people with Down’s syndrome, telling their stories and amplifying their voices. It is imperative that we, as a society, need to make sure that we #LeaveNoOneBehind.
World Down Syndrome Day 2019 was such a success that #LotsOfSocks socks and WDSD T-shirts will already be available for World Down Syndrome Day 2020. Check out the WDSD shop towards the end of this year.