Special Olympics Canada strongly endorses Minister Carla Qualtrough's announcement regarding the establishment of the Future of Sport in Canada Commission. This landmark initiative is a pivotal response to the calls for a comprehensive review of the Canadian sport system to address and prevent maltreatment. We commend Minister Qualtrough for her leadership on this vital issue and express our wholehearted support for the commitment to fostering a sport environment that prioritizes the safety, inclusion, and physical and emotional well-being of all participants.
“Canadians expect and deserve a sport system that is safe, inclusive and welcoming. The actions announced today are important steps forward in realizing a safe sport experience for all athletes and participants,” shares the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity. “Through the Future of Sport in Canada Commission’s independent review, we will continue learning from the lived experiences of victims and survivors while supporting healing and improving our sport system. Together with the complementary actions and a human rights-based approach, we will build a sport system that is safe and responsible and reflects our values of equality, fairness and inclusion.”
As a movement championing thousands of athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities across 12 Provincial/Territorial Chapters, Special Olympics Canada recognizes its responsibility to prioritize creating a sport environment free of abuse, harassment, or discrimination for all participants, including athletes, coaches, volunteers, officials and administrators. Special Olympics Canada is seamlessly aligned with the Commission's approach to ensuring a safe, accessible and equitable sport experience – both now and in the future.
"Special Olympics Canada is resolute in our commitment to collaborate actively with the Future of Sport in Canada Commission, ensuring unwavering cooperation, transparency and support," shares Special Olympics Canada CEO, Gail Hamamoto. "We will amplify the voices of our athletes as we collectively work towards our shared goal of creating a positive sport environment in Canada where every participant thrives."
In this collaborative endeavor, let us build a Canadian sport system that is safe, inclusive and beneficial for all. Together, we can forge a path towards a future where every individual can participate in sport with confidence, knowing that their safety, rights and well-being are paramount.
-----
Read the news release from Minister Qualtrough and the Government of Canada:
Building a safe sport system for Canada
For more information on Special Olympics Canada’s Safe Sport Policies:
SOC Safe Sport Commitment