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On March 21, 2026, the Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation (JDSF) celebrated World Down Syndrome Day under the theme “Together Against Loneliness” and raised awareness of the disability through its “Lots of Socks” campaign.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed globally for raising awareness of the genetic condition and to promote equal opportunities for persons living with Down syndrome. Celebrated on March 21 to match the three copies of chromosome 21, World Down Syndrome day encourages action around a specific theme to promote and protect the rights of persons with Down syndrome.

The “Lots of Socks” campaign, spearheaded by JDSF, aims to promote conversations about Down Syndrome and encourage active participation in the cause. This global campaign encourages individuals to wear bright-coloured, mismatched, or fun socks as conversation starters, to shed light on the extra chromosome people with Down Syndrome have.

“Socks are simple, visible, and universal. When worn mismatched or boldly, they spark curiosity and conversation. That moment of conversation opens the door to education about Down syndrome, difference, and inclusion. Socks also symbolise everyday life, reminding us that inclusion should not be exceptional, but normal,” the JDSF shared in a release.

This year’s theme, “Together Against Loneliness”,was chosen to highlight on one of the most overlooked issues many persons living with Down Syndrome or caring for those with Down Syndrome have to face – loneliness.

“For persons with disabilities, more specifically Down’s Syndrome, emotional and mental needs tend to be neglected whilst basic needs are met. This year’s theme shines a light on a challenge that is often overlooked: the social isolation experienced by many persons living with Down’s syndrome and, in many cases, their caregivers and families… emotional well-being, connection, and consistent support are too often left out of the conversation,” the advocacy organisation added.

Leading up to World Down Syndrome Day, the Jamaica Down Syndrome Foundation started sharing content on their Instagram page, highlighting the significance of this year’s theme, facts and ways to support the foundation and individuals living with Down Syndrome.

As part of the activities, the foundation hosted a booth at the Digicel Foundation headquarters, offering vibrant, fun socks for Jamaican $800 per pair to nearby companies. The socks quickly sold out, reflecting strong public support, with all proceeds directed toward the JDSF’s programmes and services. The booth also served as an interactive space for engagement, allowing the team to raise awareness and educate the public about Down syndrome and the importance of inclusion.

Companies such as Digicel Foundation, Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Foundation, Guardian Life, Barita Foundation, NCB Foundation, Murray’s Fish & Jerk Hut, Kool 97 FM, and the Public Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica also demonstrated their support by sharing social media content focused on raising awareness about Down syndrome, helping to amplify the message of inclusion and advocacy.

The key donors to this year’s Lots of Socks campaign included Digicel Foundation, NCB Foundation, Barita Foundation, Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Foundation, Manpower & Maintenance Services Ltd., and Murray’s Fish & Jerk Hut.

For this year’s campaign the focus was different, says Nadine Tarawali, Executive Director of Projects at JDSF.

“This year, the focus is not just awareness, but connection. We are intentionally highlighting loneliness, an issue often overlooked, and pairing the campaign with calls to action that promote sustained engagement, partnerships, and community support beyond a single day,” she explained.

The Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation encouraged participation in the “Lots of Socks” campaign on March 21 by urging individuals, schools, communities, and companies to wear bright or mismatched socks, share content on social media, donate to their programs and stay engaged with the Foundation.

“Visibility creates dialogue. Dialogue creates understanding. Understanding leads to changed behaviour. When people see widespread participation, individuals with Down syndrome feel recognised rather than overlooked. Schools, workplaces, and communities become more open to inclusive practices. The campaign is a starting point, but its impact lies in the relationships and commitments that follow.” says Acting Chairman at JDSF, Dennise Williams.

The JDSF continues to advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with Down Syndrome through education and initiatives. The JDSF offers several services to persons living with Down Syndrome and caregivers for those living with Down Syndrome, which include counselling sessions for caregivers, support meetings, parental guides and other print resources. The foundation also hosts several annual events to foster engagement, fellowship, support and physical activity amongst members. Additionally, the JDSF provides financial support and health care through various grants, annual screenings and vaccines.

This year, the foundation is strengthening partnerships with schools, corporate Jamaica, media houses, community organisations, and advocacy groups to broaden reach and ensure the message of inclusion is reinforced across multiple platforms and spaces.

In the meantime, the foundation extends its sincere gratitude to the corporate partners and everyone who purchased a pair of socks, shared content on social media, donated and supported its efforts to raise awareness about Down syndrome in this year’s Lots of Socks campaign.

“Their contributions played a meaningful role in helping to amplify the message of inclusion and advocacy,” the JDSF said.