Rock your socks with us!
Read article
Socks are like humans – different! 21/3 is World Down Syndrome Day and the day we rock our socks to celebrate people's differences. It's easy to Rock Your Socks – just wear two mismatched socks. It's a fun thing for both children and grown-ups to do!
What should you do?
Wearing two mismatched socks is a playful way for you to show that you stand up for the equal value of all people. Take a picture, post it on your Instagram and use the hashtag #rockyoursocks. Easy, right? But what if you don't have an Instagram account? Wear mismatched socks anyway! How many days a month can you and your family rock your socks?
Why 21/3?
A person with Down syndrome has 3 copies of chromosome 21, making 21/3 the perfect day.
Tip! Using mismatched socks is a fun way to talk to children about how all people are different but equally valuable.
Started in the United States
While we've been rocking our socks for a number of years now in Sweden, the "Rock Your Socks” initiative started in the United States. The Swedish National Down Syndrome Association brought the initiative to Sweden in 2014. We've had a chat with Annika Lindqvist from the Swedish National Down Syndrome Association.
How important is this day?
– This day is very important to us, almost like a national day for Down syndrome. It's a day of happiness when we celebrate everyone's equal value and everyone's right to be who they are.
How do you see the future of Rock Your Socks?
– Rock Your Socks has grown enormously from year to year and attracts more attention from the general public every year. It's fantastic that so many people take this opportunity to rock their socks. We believe, and hope, that this will continue in the future and that one day Rock Your Socks will as significant a celebration as Midsummer.
Is there anything we should consider before 21/3?
– It's important to understand why you rock your socks. 21/3 is a direct link to Trisomy 21, the medical term for Down syndrome, and Rock Your Socks is a happy demonstration about standing up for the equal value, rights and opportunities of everyone.
Comfy socks to rock in
Our socks are perfect for rocking in – long, short, with or without cuffs, plain or patterned, with or without anti-slip. They’re all made to stay in place, even on playful feet. Which ones do your child like best?
Support the Swedish National Down Syndrome Association
By supporting the Swedish National Down Syndrome Association, you will be helping to increase knowledge about Down syndrome. Read more at svenskadownforeningen.se