Down Syndrome awareness events kick off March 18

The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware will commemorate World Down Syndrome Day Saturday, March 21, a symbolic date that reflects the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome that characterizes Down syndrome. 

Along with Rock Your Socks awareness initiatives planned on or near the date, the variety of statewide events includes a guest bartending fundraiser from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 18, at The Starboard in Dewey Beach, and the Run for the Buds 5K Saturday, March 22, at The Starboard.

For Rock Your Socks activities, community groups ranging from elementary schools to medical practices wear brightly colored, mismatched socks to spark conversations about Down syndrome.

Socks were chosen as the program's symbol because the karyotype of Down syndrome chromosomes resembles mismatched socks. By wearing brightly colored, mismatched socks, participants unite in a powerful message of support, inclusion and awareness for the Down syndrome community to increase understanding, and foster an environment of inclusion and advocacy.

To learn more, go to dsadelaware.org.