World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed by the United Nations on March 21 every year since 2012 to raise awareness about the genetic condition. Various activities and workshops are conducted to promote the inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement which a part of human condition. People with these characteristics often have effects on learning styles, physical characteristics or health. It is caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy chromosome 21. According to Down Syndrome Federation of India, ''one in every 800-1,000 live births is a child with Down Syndrome.''

The theme of World Down Syndrome Day 2019 is 'Leave no one behind'. United Nations states the agenda as "All people with Down syndrome must have opportunities to live fulfilling lives, included on a full and equal basis with others, in all aspects of society. The 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, a global plan of action for people, planet and prosperity, pledges that "no one will be left behind". World Down Syndrome Day: Famous People With Down Syndrome Who Changed The Way World Views The Condition.

Socks Campaign

People observe the day by wearing mismatched socks to represent the differences. The socks campaign is intended to spark talks about diversity, inclusion, uniqueness and acceptance. People wear a different sock on each foot to work, colleges and other places celebrating the day.

The initiative is part of the 'Lots of Socks' campaign by an organisation called Down Syndrome International. The website of Down's Syndrome Scotland suggests how chromosomes look like socks thus giving up with the concept 'Lots of Socks' to honour those with an extra chromosome.

Check out pictures of people celebrating socks campaign on WDSD here:

Rocking colourful socks

Lots Of Socks

Watch this beautiful video on inclusivity below:

During the first observance of WDSD, then Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon had said, "On this day, let us reaffirm that persons with Down syndrome are entitled to the full and effective enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms. Let us each do our part to enable children and persons with Down syndrome to participate fully in the development and life of their societies on an equal basis with others. Let us build an inclusive society for all."

Know about World Down Syndrome Day here:

The day focuses on the aspect that all people with Down syndrome must have opportunities for personal development, personal relationships, education, healthcare, work and livelihood, recreation and leisure and participation in public life. WDSD was first observed in 2006 in many countries around the world. Down Syndrome Association Singapore launched and hosted the WDSD website from 2006-2010. Popular hashtags on social media spreading awareness on the day are #LeaveNoOneBehind #WorldDownSyndromeDay and #WDSD19.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 21, 2019 04:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).