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Fighting the stigma

A compilation of persons who rocked their socks. (Collage by Kiara Smith)
By Kiara Smith on Monday, 21 March, 2022 at 05:37 PM

Barbadians and people from all over the world have worn their pretty coloured socks in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day.

This event, which is held on the 21st March every year, was created to bring more awareness on the disorder known as down syndrome and develop a society that will respect and include equal opportunities for persons with the disorder, along with encouraging advocacy from everyone.

President of the Barbados Down Syndrome Association, Asha Alleyne-Renwick, said, “The theme for this year is 'Inclusion',” and added, “We are encouraging people to think about the meaning of inclusion and what it really means to them on a personal level, and how we can become a more inclusive society. A society that is more accepting of individuals with different things, realizing that we all have something to contribute to not only society, but to life in general.”

The multi-coloured socks are not only meant to develop curiosity from others, or show acknowledgement for the disorder, but the socks show similar patterns to the duplication of the twenty-first chromosome that is  unique to persons with down syndrome.

Sophia Cumberbatch, who works in the corporate industry said she always heard about down syndrome but never knew what it was, so by seeing the “rock your socks” flyer and being attracted to the entire campaign, it piqued her interest to go and research.

After researching, she wore her socks with pride, because she now understands what it was all about and was happy to participate.

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