World Down Syndrome Day is March 21

Families across the world are asking everyone to mark March 21 on their calendars. It’s a day to recognize people with Down syndrome and their contributions to the community.

Locally, World Down Syndrome Day was recognized at One Hope Church in Tuscaloosa.  The annual event started small with about 30 people and within just a few years has grown to hundreds.

This year’s theme was “With Us Not For Us.”  The message is key to a human rights-based approach to disability. A human rights-based approach views people with disabilities as having the right to be treated fairly and having the same opportunities as everyone else, working with others to improve their lives.

Tuesday night’s event included an appearance from Big Al, food, music, and of course – dancing.

World Down Syndrome Day is March 21. It’s a global awareness day officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date for WDSD, being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.