Officials from the cities of Petal and Hattiesburg recently recognized World Down Syndrome Day, which is observed annually on March 21 to create awareness about Down syndrome, a genetic disorder associated with physical growth delays, mild to moderate intellectual disability and characteristic facial features.
Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker and Petal Mayor Tony Ducker took the occasion to host small gatherings on the steps of their respective city hall buildings to honor the day. Barker was joined by representatives from the Arc of Southeast Mississippi, The Children’s Center for Communication and Development, the United Way of Southeast Mississippi and parents and family members affected by Down syndrome to issue a proclamation naming March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day in the City of Hattiesburg.
“It is truly only through intentional inclusivity of people of all abilities, peoples of different life experiences and different viewpoints that we as a community become stronger, and we as people become better,” said Sarah Myers, director of the children’s center.
Ducker was visited by Airen Jones – who has the syndrome – along with Airen’s mom Aleshia and two sisters, Analyse and Amelia.
“Thanks for spending some time with us,” Ducker told the Jones family on Facebook. “You are always welcome at city hall.”
World Down Syndrome Day was instituted in 2007. March 31 – the third month of the year – was chosen to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.
Many individuals who participate in the day wear colorful, mismatched socks, an act aimed at striking up conversations about why inclusion and acceptance of people with Down syndrome is important.
According to www.worlddownsyndromeday.org, approximately one in every 800 babies are born with the syndrome. It occurs naturally, with no known cause.
Gov. Tate Reeves also has issued a proclamation in honor of World Down Syndrome Day, which states that an estimated 3 to 4 million people worldwide are afflicted with the syndrome, including approximately 400,000 in the United States. The proclamation touts the National Down Syndrome Society, which is a non-profit organization that supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: resources and support; policy and advocacy; and community engagement.
“(That organization) envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming community,” the proclamation states. “Advancements in Down syndrome research and inclusive community practices have demonstrated that early intervention, education, social supports, therapeutic care and positive public attitudes improve each individual’s chances to live a meaningful, productive and satisfying life.
“Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has more than doubled in the past 25 years. Today, most individuals with Down syndrome can be expected to survive until age 55 to 60. This increased life span emphasizes the need for continuing development of treatments that will assist persons with Down syndrome to reach their full potential and maximize their ability to live full and more independent lives.”
