World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day History

World Down Syndrome Day seeks to raise awareness about the genetic disorder. Down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement that has existed in humans across all regions of the globe. It is the presence of an extra chromosome that causes Down syndrome. It is still not yet known why it occurs, but it can result in varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability. This day aims to provide those with down syndrome the ability to have full participation in the decision making process about matters relating to their lives.

World Down Syndrome Day was established in 2011 by the U.N General Assembly. It is observed annually on March 21st.

Facts about World Down Syndrome Day

• The theme for World Down Syndrome Day in 2024 will be End The Stereotypes. The theme in 2023 was With Us Not For Us.
• According to the U.N, those with Down syndrome can achieve an optimal quality of life through parental care and support, medical guidance, and community based support systems. By being inclusive such as with education, those with Down syndrome can have greater participation in mainstream society.
• According to the CDC, there are about 6,000 babies born with down syndrome in the U.S. each year.
• According to March Of Dimes, about 1 in 700 babies are born with Down Syndrome.

In the News and Trending in the US for World Down Syndrome Day

Top things to do in the US for World Down Syndrome Day

• Learn more about Down syndrome in the short film Chromosomes R Us.
• Listen to several people with Down syndrome explain what Down Syndrome is and how it affects their lives.
• Watch a film or documentary that accurately portrays Down syndrome. Here are our suggestions:
  The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
  Far From the Tree (2017)
  Where Hope Grows (2014)