The bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester joined in on this year’s celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, a day set aside to raise global awareness of the disorder.

“Every life is a gift, every person has a purpose, and all should be treated with dignity and love. #WorldDownSyndromeDay,” Bishop Robert Barron said about the day in a tweet.

The day has been recognized by the United Nations since 2012. It is celebrated on the 21st day of the third month because 3/21 symbolizes the trisomy of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome, World Down Syndrome Day says on its website.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that results from the extra chromosome. Chromosomes carry genes and determine the growth and functionality of a baby's body. Approximately 1 in every 800 babies is born with Down syndrome. The cause of the condition is unknown. Down syndrome can lead to physical and intellectual disabilities of varying degrees, along with medical complications, the World Down Syndrome Day website adds.

The theme of World Down Syndrome Day 2023 was "With Us Not For Us," calling for individuals and organizations worldwide to adopt a human rights-based approach to disability. The U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities emphasizes the right of every person to make their own choices. However, individuals with Down syndrome often receive inadequate or controlling support, with their caregivers doing things for them rather than with them, World Down Syndrome Day says.