World Down Syndrome Day
What is World Down Syndrome Day (3/21)?
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness day celebrated each year on March 21. This date signifies the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. On this day, individuals and organizations worldwide come together to celebrate the lives of people with Down syndrome, promote inclusion, and advocate for their rights and well-being. The theme for WDSD varies each year, focusing on important aspects like accessibility, empowerment, and community.
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Learn more about WDSD: https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org
Why is 3/21 significant to DSDN?
In addition to spreading awareness and advocating on WDSD, the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network (DSDN) was founded on World Down Syndrome Day in 2014 with a mission to support families receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis. Through our community-driven approach, we connect expectant and new parents—and the medical professionals who serve them—with resources, information, and a network of support. From personalized online groups to our annual Rockin’ Mom® and Rockin’ Dad™ Retreats, DSDN fosters a community where parents can find understanding, connection, and empowerment.
As we approach our 11th anniversary, we reflect on the thousands of families we've supported over the years and our ongoing commitment to expand our reach. Looking ahead, DSDN is dedicated to connecting with even more expectant and new families while deepening our overall impact within the Down syndrome community.
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Learn more about DSDN: https://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/about
How can you show your support on WDSD?
There are many ways you can participate in World Down Syndrome Day! From showing off colorful socks, using your own voice and platform to advocate, and participating in local events, you can help create a more accepting and inclusive world. Here are a few ways that you can join DSDN on that day.
Rock Your Socks
Pals Socks our go-to for colorful, fun, mismatched socks. You'll often see people sporting their mismatched socks on WDSD to spark conversations about Down syndrome and to emphasize that we don't have to match to be friends.
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Learn more here.
Other WDSD Resources:
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​From DSDN's Online Resource Library
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Book List - Children's Books About Down Syndrome, Inclusion, Celebrating Difference, and More
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View all of the resources in DSDN's Online Resource Library 0r Biblioteca de Recursos
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More DSDN and WDSD Apparel and Gear ​
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DSDN Share & Shop Group featuring goods and services from Rockin' families
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🌟 Join us live on our Facebook page!
Join us for a special Facebook Live on 3.21—World Down Syndrome Day!—at 7pm Eastern on our Facebook page. We'll announce the winners of the Rockin' Retreat scholarships and you can enter to win a FREE retreat registration!