March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) and to bring awareness to the day, on Thursday, March 21st, students and staff throughout the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board are encouraged to wear fun and crazy socks.
The United Nations first recognized March 21st as World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) in 2012. The date – the 21st day of the 3rd month – was specifically chosen to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
World Down Syndrome Day acknowledges and celebrates the value, achievements, contributions, and inclusion of all individuals with Down Syndrome. Their many and meaningful contributions, whether in schools, workplaces, living in the community, public and political life, culture, media, recreation, leisure or sport, make our world a better place.
“We all have the same possibility of growing, moving forward, loving the Lord, doing good things,” said our Holy Father, Pope Francis, in acknowledgement of this special day.
On World Down Syndrome Day and every day, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board gives thanks for the many gifts, talents and contributions that people with Down Syndrome bring to our lives and school communities.
Show your support on Thursday, March 21st by wearing colourful, crazy socks.
For information or access to free, downloadable, and printable celebration kits, presentations, videos, and teaching plans in both English and French, please visit:
https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/
Photos of Mrs. Duarte's grade one class, St. Joachim Catholic Elementary School: