March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day, which has been officially recognised by the United Nations since 2012.
On this day, people all around the world celebrate the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome. March 21st provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome around the world.
Stories from World Down Syndrome Day
21 stories for March
Each year in March we share 21 stories for World Down Syndrome Day. You can see our stories here.
See all our stories
Each year people with Down syndrome and families share their stories. You can find all of these stories here.
How to get involved
You can get involved in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day by organising an awareness event. Many people around the world hold a Lots of Socks event or organise a morning tea.
Ideas for getting involved
We want to get people talking about World Down Syndrome Day on the 21st March. We can do this by wearing bright and colourful socks! You can wear official lots of socks, branded socks, or any other pair of socks to make a statement: bright socks, long socks, printed socks, or maybe even three socks for three chromosomes. You can order the official Lots of Socks at our online shop. Ask your child’s teacher or school to join in by holding a ‘Lots of Socks’ day.
We have an awareness and inclusion package for primary school aged children
- Visit our Lots of Socks Fundraising Page here.
- Download our Lots of Socks Inclusion Guide for Schools here.
- Order socks on our Online Shop
- Learn more at the official Lots Of Socks page via Down Syndrome International.
Many people hold morning teas or a ‘Tea for Trisomy 21’ throughout March to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day and the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome. Supporters hold local fundraising and awareness events across the country, to celebrate the occasion and to raise funds for the Australian state and territory Down syndrome associations.
Here are some resources and ideas to help with organising a tea or a fundraising event.
• Beautiful postcard to print or send electronically
• What is Down Syndrome? Information sheet
• A themed invite to send to guests
• Quick & easy sweet recipe suggestions
• Quick & easy savoury recipe suggestions
• A Media release template for you to send to your community paper with a ‘human interest’ story to highlight World Down Syndrome Day
• Fundraising ideas for hosting a morning or afternoon tea
• A letter seeking donations and a thank you certificate is also available. Contact your local association to ask about donation letters.