EVERY year on March 21, World Down’s Syndrome Day is celebrated to raise awareness of the syndrome.
This date was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome.
The public are encouraged to wear colourful or patterned socks, or two socks that don't match, to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.
Down Syndrome International's “Lot of Socks” campaign was thought up to encourage discussions around diversity, and being unique, inclusive and accepting.
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Antur Waunfawr, a Caernarfon-based non-profit organisation, has co-ordinated a special campaign to mark this year’s World Down Syndrome Day, challenging Welsh celebrities to sport colourful, patterned, or non-matching socks to raise awareness.
Antur Waunfawr is a leading social enterprise, established in 1984, providing employment and training opportunities for people with learning disabilities in their own community.
Among the celebrities who answered the call were Welsh music legends Dafydd Iwan, Bryn Fôn, and Caryl Parry Jones, naturalist Iolo Williams, ex-Welsh footballer Owain Tudur Jones and prominent broadcaster Dewi Llwyd.
The photos have been shared on Antur Waunfawr’s social channels.
Osian Owen, a spokesperson on behalf of Antur Waunfawr said: “At Antur Waunfawr, we really do believe that our strength lies in our diversity.
“The ‘Lot of Socks’ campaign is an amusing opportunity to celebrate that diversity.
“Our founder, R. Gwynn Davies, was a staunch believer that every member of society should be celebrated as an individual, and that’s what days like this one is all about.
“I’d like to extend my gratitude to all Welsh stars that answered our call to raise awareness of World Down Syndrome Day.”
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