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Federal Way proclaims March 21 World Down Syndrome Day; families invite council to community events
Summary
The council read a proclamation recognizing World Down Syndrome Day, heard from Ariana and families connected to the 3 2 1 Buddy Foundation about programs and a Buddy Walk on Oct. 3, 2026, and learned a day center for people with disabilities will open next week.
Federal Way City Council read a proclamation declaring March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day in the city and invited representatives from the 3 2 1 Buddy Foundation to speak.
After the proclamation was read, Ariana and family members described their advocacy work, an upcoming Buddy Walk on Oct. 3, 2026 in Tacoma, and the opening of a community day center next week for people with Down syndrome and other disabilities. 3 2 1 Buddy executive director Alicia Valele thanked the council for “seeing our families and seeing our loved ones,” and Andrea (Ariana’s mother) recounted Ariana’s growth as a self‑advocate and the family’s commitment to inclusion.
Why it matters: The proclamation is ceremonial but underscores council recognition of local disability advocacy and connects the city to local nonprofit programming and community events. Families asked council members to participate in the Buddy Walk and accepted the proclamation on behalf of area families.
Next steps: Council accepted the proclamation and council members thanked the families and organizers; staff were asked to accept materials passed to the clerk for distribution.
"Thank you for seeing us," one family member said during remarks, asking the council to join community events and support inclusion programs.
