BATON ROUGE — Every year on March 21, communities around the world come together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, celebrating individuals with Down syndrome, and promoting inclusion.
The date itself carries special meaning.
“March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day! 3-21, get it? It represents the third copy of the 21st chromosome!” said Cara Couvillion, whose daughter Indy Joy has Down syndrome. “World Down Syndrome Day is a day to celebrate those with Down syndrome. In the Couvillion household, it is easy to celebrate our Indy Joy everyday but World Down Syndrome Day just gives us an EXTRA special day to celebrate her!”
Across the world, supporters mark the day by wearing bright, mismatched or “crazy” socks, a fun way to spark conversation and awareness.
“If you look at chromosomes very closely, they have distinct shapes and come in pairs, kind of like a pair of socks!” Couvillion explained.
This year, the celebration in Baton Rouge will be even bigger. The Down Syndrome Awareness Group of Baton Rouge is hosting its annual Buddy Walk, bringing together families, friends, and supporters for a morning of celebration and community.
The Buddy Walk is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year and helps provide critical resources, support programs, and connections for families in the Baton Rouge area.
“It is not only a fundraiser, but a party full of food, dancing and activities for the entire family.”
Families and supporters will gather at A.Z. Young Park in downtown Baton Rouge from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the celebration. Organizers say everyone is invited.
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