World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on March 21st every year. While the very first celebration was held in 2006, in December 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared March 21st as World Down Syndrome Day (https://www.un.org/en/observances/down-syndrome-day).
So why March 21st? Well the typical person has 23 pairs of chromosomes for a total of 46 chromosomes. People with Down syndrome are born with a third copy of the 21st chromosome. Tie this all together and March 21st (3/21) is the perfect day to celebrate and support this amazing community while also spreading awareness.
And while World Down Syndrome Day is today, October has been designated as Down Syndrome Awareness Month since the 1980s, which is why you will see additional campaigns, particularly fundraising events (such as Buddy Walks) later in the year.
