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Yesterday, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders proclaimed March 21 as “World Down Syndrome Awareness Day” or WDSD.
WDSD is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome. About one in every 800 infants will be born with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical
disability and associated medical issues.
This year’s WDSD theme is “With Us Not For Us”. To learn more about the global awareness day, visit the WDSD website.
Governor Sanders’ proclamation may be ready below:
Proclamation on World Down Syndrome Awareness Day
WHEREAS: Down syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting one in over 700 babies, or approximately 6,000 births per year in the United States;
WHEREAS: Occurring from an individual having a full or partial extra copy of chromosome number 21, Down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement and is one of the most common chromosomal conditions;
WHEREAS: Individuals living with Down syndrome are independent, valuable, and active members of our communities who are dignified participants in a wide range of educational, occupational, social, and recreational activities;
WHEREAS: The date March 21, represents the uniqueness of the three copies of the chromosome 21 and celebrates individuals with Down syndrome;
WHEREAS: This year marks the 14th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day, supporting individuals with Down syndrome and those who advocate for them; and
WHEREAS: Individuals with disabilities have the right to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else, working with others to improve their lives;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, SARAH HUCKABEE SANDERS, Governor of the State of Arkansas, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the laws of the state of Arkansas, do hereby proclaim March 21st, 2023, as
“WORLD DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY”
And urge the citizens of the state to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Arkansas to be affixed the 14th day of March, in the year of our Lord 2023.
