Students and staff at Holyoke’s Transitions Academy celebrated World Down Syndrome Day on Wednesday, March 21 with discussions, reflections, and colorful socks.
Special education teachers Emil Morales and Francisco Negron kicked off the day’s festivities by leading enlightening discussions about Down syndrome and the significance of having an extra chromosome for individuals who have it.
“Down syndrome is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes—46 in total,” the World Down Syndrome Day website explains. “People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome added onto the 21st pair—47 in total. Chromosomes act like an instruction manual that defines how our bodies look and how they work. People who have Down syndrome usually have an intellectual disability. This is different in each person. Some health conditions are more common in people with Down syndrome.”
Down syndrome has no known causes. Approximately one in every 800 babies is born with Down syndrome (also called Trisomy 21).
Transitions Academy staff knew that socks make a great conversation starter, so using their own money they purchased a wide variety of uniquely patterned and colorful socks as a playful way to spark conversations about Down syndrome. During the event, staff members and students donned a fun pair of socks of their choosing, in keeping with the “Lots of Socks” initiative. “The idea is to start a conversation, so when people ask you about your socks, you can tell them, ‘I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome,’” the website explains.
The socks proved to be one of the most fun—and impactful—parts of the experience.
“The array of socks became a visual representation of unity in diversity, encouraging discussions about acceptance and the importance of creating an inclusive initiative,” said Transitions Academy Program Manager Corrine Moguel. “The whole day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome. In a world where diversity continues to be a crucial topic of discussion, Transitions Academy's celebration of World Down Syndrome Day stands as a heartfelt reminder that every person, regardless of their genetic makeup, has the right to be celebrated and embraced. Together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone's uniqueness is recognized and cherished.”