WDSD x Freshly Pressed 2019

Show off (your socks) for a good cause

21 March is World Down Syndrome Day, a global awareness day that encourages people from all the world to come together to help raise public awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities.

As part of the day, we would like to encourage you to show your support by wearing your most brightly coloured and unique socks as a conversation piece to help increase awareness about Down Syndrome.

You can show your support in the following ways:

1. Wear your most colorful socks leading up to 21 March.

If anyone asks you about your socks, take the opportunity to tell them about World Down Syndrome Day and educate them about people with Down Syndrome. We have some talking points available below.

2. Post a photo of your colourful socks on your social media channels with the hashtags #wdsd2019 #WorldDownSyndromeDay #leavenoonebehind and the following information:

“March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day. Come join me in a global cause to raise awareness for Down Syndrome by wearing your most brightly coloured and unique socks as a conversation piece.

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder and one of the most common chromosome abnormalities in humans. It occurs in about one per 1,000 babies born each year. Down syndrome is not a disease (you cannot catch it) nor is there a cure. Individuals are not victims and are not suffering or afflicted in any way.

With early intervention, proper care and good support, people with Down’s syndrome go on to lead increasing independent lives; having jobs, their own homes, relationships and so on. The play a vital role in our lives and communities and are in no way a burden on society.”

Share this with everyone you know who loves to wear colourful socks.


More about Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic condition where a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material changes the course of development and causes the characteristics we have associated with Down Syndrome.

It is one of the most common chromosome abnormalities in humans and occurs in about one per 1,000 babies born each year. Down syndrome is not a disease (you cannot catch it) nor is there a cure. Individuals are not victims and are not suffering or afflicted in any way.

All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.

People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships, vote and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.