March 20th, 2024

Tomorrow, March 21, is World Down Syndrome Day. We encourage the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) community to celebrate this day with us. This year, the theme is “End the Stereotypes”. It is a reminder that we are all different and unique, including those with Down Syndrome or an intellectual disability. We each have our individual identity, interests, likes and dislikes, gifts and talents.

About World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. March 21 (3.21) was chosen as the date for WDSD to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Dyndrome.

How To Participate

To recognize World Down Syndrome Day, the Waterloo Wellington Down Syndrome Society (WWDSS) has suggested some activities:

  • Wear colourful or mismatched socks on Thursday, March 21.
    • Colourful socks look a little like chromosomes and are a fun way to celebrate.
    • Whatever the colour and design, whether mismatched or matched, socks are socks and people are people, with or without Down Syndrome.
    • Younger students may enjoy designing their own colourful socks.
  • Share your activities and messages on social media. Be sure to use #WorldDownSyndromeDay or #WDSD to participate in a wider conversation.

Resources for World Down Syndrome Day

  • You can find a great video explaining Down Syndrome produced by the Down Syndrome Research Foundation at What is Down Syndrome?
    • Video: Just Like You is another great video about Down Syndrome
  • Members of Waterloo Wellington Down Syndrome Society co-wrote a song with 3x Juno Award-nominated songwriter and music producer Alysha Brilla for World Down Syndrome Day in 2021, celebrating inclusivity.