#RockYourSocks!

March 21st is internationally recognized as World Down Syndrome Day. The UN’s General Assembly created this day in 2011 to help raise public awareness of Down Syndrome, promoting diversity and inclusion.

According to the United Nations, around 3000 to 5000 children are born with this chromosome disorder each year. The quality of life of people with Down Syndrome can significantly improve when provided with the necessary health care and education. This means that community-based help is essential to guarantee their wellbeing. Thus, by spreading awareness and information, we can prepare others and our society to form part of these support systems.

Across the globe, many initiatives have been created to advocate for people with Down Syndrome. One of them is the #RockYourSocks campaign, which invites everyone to wear mismatched socks every March 21st. This symbol was inspired by the 3 copies of the 21st chromosome, which characterises Down Syndrome. When looked at in a microscope, these copies resemble mismatched socks!

Apart from being a fun and creative way to show support, this campaign has brought tremendous attention to the issue. Since it is very simple to participate, people around the world have joined in wearing crazy socks, raising its popularity.

Now, our school has taken part in this wonderful project. This past Monday, students and teachers alike showed up to class in their two most colourful socks. Across every hallway, bright patterns and funky designs could be seen as displays of solidarity. It also sparked conversations about inclusion and served to communicate relevant knowledge about the history of this day.

However, the work does not end now. World Down Syndrome day invites its participants to share ideas and experiences, bringing up relevant discussions about society and diversity. It empowers us to advocate for equal rights and reach out to other members of the community to bring positive change. So, we invite you to continue getting involved and raising awareness. Together, we can make a difference.

Bibliography

Join us on 21 March. (n.d.). World Down Syndrome Day: Home. Retrieved from https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/

Rock Your Socks. (2021). Down Syndrome Association of Delaware. Retrieved from https://www.dsadelaware.org/events/rock-your-socks/

United Nations. (n.d.). World Down Syndrome Day | United Nations. The United Nations. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/en/observances/down-syndrome-day