World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), 21 March, is a global awareness day which has been 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.
We encourage communities, schools, clubs, companies and individuals to choose their own activities and events to celebrate WDSD and to help raise awareness of this very special celebration. Together we can challenge perceptions of Down syndrome and enable people with Down syndrome to speak up, be heard and be respected as valued members of society as they strive to achieve their goals and pursue their passions.
How can you help celebrate WDSD and raise awareness?
We encourage everyone to raise awareness about WDSD in their school, community, club or workplace to get people talking about Down syndrome and help people #SeeTheAbility.
It’s easy to do so come on, join in! Here are some ideas to get you started:
Virtual Purple Run
Sign up for your own Purple Run challenge this March. Registration and T-shirt are FREE to all participants.
WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY VIRTUAL DISCO DANCE PARTY
We are organising a Virtual World Down Syndrome Day Disco Party for our Adult and Teenage Members to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.
When: Sunday 21st March 2021
Time: 6 – 8PM
Theme: Lots of Socks.
All you need to do is choose some socks that are going to get noticed – they might be mismatched socks or your craziest and most colourful socks, whatever takes your fancy!
Where : Zoom Platform
The Party will be Hosted By Shay Casserley & Linda Farrell who will be assisted by Philip Connolly & Stephen Farrell.
World Down Syndrome Day Virtual Magic Show
We have organised a Virtual World Down Syndrome Day Magic Show this year to help our members to celebrate WDSD.
When: Sunday 21st March 2021
Time: 2:00pm – 2:40pm
Where: Zoom Platform
Theme: Lots of Socks. All you need to do is choose some socks that are going to get noticed – they might be mismatched socks or your craziest and most colourful socks, whatever takes your fancy!
Hosted by Simon Ryan Virtual Magician Ireland 085 1136127 www.themagician.ie
Colouring Competition in Celebration of World Down Syndrome Day
We have organised a colouring competition for all our members. We would love to see as many colourful socks and artistic designs as possible.
Every entry will be displayed on the branches Social Media Pages, for the world to see the amazing talent of our members.
There will be 5 Categories:
0 – 4 years
5 – 8 years
9 – 13 years
14 – 16 years
17 years and over
A winner for each category will be chosen by our judge Debra Ann Woods.
Each winner will receive a €50 voucher for the Arts & Hobby Shop.
The lucky winners will be announced on 21st March 2021.
Entries can be sent by email by sending a PDF or a photo with the subject line WDSD Colouring Competition to secretarydslm@gmail.com by 14th March 2021.
You can colour whichever sheet is most suitable to your ability (or design your own with a Sock theme) but you will be judged in whichever category you fit into by age.
Have fun & get colouring.