Every year World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on March 21, this year being a Thursday.

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder that causes developmental and intellectual delays caused by an error in cell division called nondisjunction.

It is the most common chromosomal condition, with about 6,000 babies being born with Down syndrome just in the United States every year.

Yesterday, people around the world, including those with Down syndrome themselves, came together to participate in activities and events to help raise public awareness about the syndrome and advocate for the rights of those with it.

National events included dances, sports tournaments, photo shoots, fashion shows, and parties.

This year for WDSD the global theme was “Leave no one behind.”

This is due to individuals across the world with Down syndrome feeling as if they do not receive the same opportunities in school, workplaces, and their communities as those who do not.

Discrimination, exclusion, and low expectations of those with the syndrome is present every day, meaning that they are being left behind everyone else in society.

It is only right for people with Down syndrome to receive the same opportunities as any other person, as well as being treated fairly and equally in all aspects of society.

People often fail to understand the challenges these individuals face on a daily basis and how to support them with the opportunities needed to live fulfilling lives.

The goal of WDSD and it’s advocates is to improve the lives of those with Down syndrome and advocate for their right to be accepted and included as equals in society.

People across the world wore the colors blue and yellow and brightly colored mismatched socks in order to help spread awareness.

The featured image used in this article is from Flickr.