Inclusion is accepting all people as equals—regardless of ability, ethnicity, age, religion, or gender identity—and ensuring that they have access to the same services and opportunities as everyone else.
Since Special Olympics was founded in 1968, inclusion has been central to our mission and programs: fighting for the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities through the power of sports. We believe that people with intellectual disabilities have a fundamental human right to be included in all spheres of life, and we won’t stop fighting until we create a world that stops putting them on the sidelines, and instead embraces their differences.
Together, we can continue the fight to create an inclusive and welcoming world for all. Be part of a powerful new generation that celebrates ALL abilities—in sports, in schools, in health!
Special Olympics Global Week of Inclusion
Too many Special Olympics athletes knew the pain of isolation and exclusion long before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Canadians with intellectual disabilities are still too often left out – on playgrounds, from the workforce, from conversations. Together, we have the power to change the future for all. Be a Champion of Inclusion and #ChooseToInclude.
From July 19 to 24, 2021, the Special Olympics Global Week of Inclusion will be an opportunity to challenge others to rethink what they believe about ability, and to inspire change by honouring some of the many champions who always #ChooseToInclude and celebrate all abilities.
Actions for Inclusion
Now more than ever, we need to come together for inclusion. It takes all of us coming together to build a truly inclusive world where no one is left behind because of their disability, ethnicity, age, religion, or gender identity.
Exclusion fuels the fear of difference. Inclusion fuels acceptance.
In the Special Olympics Global Week of Inclusion, supporters can accept the challenge to #ChooseToInclude and show the world we are better together. Champions of inclusion can share photos of themselves with signs saying “I #ChooseToInclude,” sharing on social media and tagging friends to join us in changing the world! You can make your own “I #ChooseToInclude” sign – feel free to get creative!
