World Down Syndrome Day 2024, History, Importance, and Theme

World Down Syndrome Day 2024

21 March 2024, is recognized globally as World Down Syndrome Day 2024. It is a worldwide celebration that takes place on March 21st of each year all throughout the world. The date of March 21st was chosen to represent the singularity of the Down syndrome-causing triplication of the 21st chromosome. World Down Syndrome Day 2024 is celebrated annually on March 21 to raise awareness of Down syndrome. On this day, people who live with or work with people who have Down syndrome plan and take part in events and activities all over the world in an effort to increase public awareness and unite the voices of people with Down syndrome in favor of their rights, inclusion, and general well-being.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality, affecting one in every 700 infants born in the US. In the United States, more than 6,000 babies with Down syndrome are born each year..
• The nucleus, which houses the genes that store genetic material, is present in every human cell. All of our inherited qualities are coded by genes, which are arranged along rod-like structures called chromosomes. Half of the 23 pairs of chromosomes that make up each cell’s nucleus are inherited from each parent.
• When someone has a complete or partial extra copy of chromosome 21, they are said to have Down syndrome. The traits linked to Down syndrome are brought on by this extra genetic material, which modifies the path of development.
• Low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm are some of the common physical traits associated with Down syndrome. However, as each person with Down syndrome is unique, they may or may not have these characteristics.

World Down Syndrome Day 2024: Theme

Every year, the UN selects the theme for World Down Syndrome Day celebrations. In 2024, the theme is “End the Stereotypes.” This subject serves as an example of how we should try to involve those who are impacted by Down syndrome or other disabilities in all aspects of life. People with Down syndrome should not be subjected to racism or considered “ugly” because of their appearance.

• Every year, WDSD has an independent subject to draw attention to and concentrate actions on different aspects of Down syndrome advocacy on a global scale. Previous years’ themes included “Leave No One Behind,” “My Opportunities, My Choices,” and “We Decide.”
• Depending on the goals and serious issues that the Down syndrome community is now facing, the theme for World Down Syndrome Day 2024 may change. Themes frequently replicate the continuous initiatives to support health, empowerment, education, and inclusion for people with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day 2024: Significance

People all throughout the world plan activities and campaigns on this day to raise awareness of the illness. #LotsOfSocks is currently one of the trending promotions. All you have to do to participate in the campaign is wear odd socks. People may notice this factor and inquire as to why you are wearing it. This is your moment to explain that you are wearing it to raise awareness about Down syndrome.

Owing to the importance of WDSD and its role in promoting acceptance and understanding, it is still celebrated globally through a range of activities, campaigns, and events that support the rights and welfare of people with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day 2024: History

The UN general assembly determined in 2005 that in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, no one should be left behind and that people with disabilities must step up to support the UN in achieving its Agenda 2030 ambitions. In order to provide better and more distinctive healthcare facilities for the residents of Earth, WHO, the leading organization/department of the UN in terms of mental and physical health, has been active and has further diversified its activities.

On March 30, 2007, the convention was then made available for signatures. There were 44 parties to the Optional Protocol, 82 parties to the Convention, and one ratification of the Convention. On the first day of a UN convention, this is the most number of signatories in history. It is the first human rights agreement that is available for signature by regional integration organizations and the first comprehensive human rights pact of the twenty-first century. The Convention became operative on May 3, 2008.

World Down Syndrome Day 2024: Importance

• WDSD is crucial for promoting the rights, participation, and well-being of people with Down syndrome as well as increasing public knowledge of the condition.
• It provides a chance to showcase the skills, achievements, and contributions that individuals with Down syndrome have made to their communities.
• In an effort to promote a more accepting and understanding society, the day also aims to clear up myths and injustices related to Down syndrome.