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Hollywood does it Again
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
UPDATED SEPTEMBER 22
UPDATED MARCH 13
It looks like Hollywood has done it again. I'd like to bring this article from the March 11 edition of the Chicago Tribune to your attention.
The article is a Q&A interview with actor Craig Robinson (Daryl, the warehouse guy in "The Office") who has a supporting role in the upcoming movie "Miss March" which comes out in theatres on Friday March 13.
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Q - In the script, the word "retard" is used over and over. The comedy "Tropic Thunder" received a great deal of criticism for using the same word. Was there any concern over how this might be received?
A - I've heard nothing. There could very well be something, but I haven't heard anything. We shot it probably the same time as ["Tropic Thunder"]. I wasn't in the editing room. You'll have to talk to the guys who made those decisions.
Q - But, as a comedian, is that just a toxic word now?
A - It does seem to be. You can see it from a parent's point of view. But the way they use it in the movie is funny. It's silly. It's not going out to hurt anybody. It's definitely not coming from an evil place; it's just coming from the way people talk.
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Please note, I have not seen the movie, but Special Olympics has requested a viewing copy of the movie.
What I do know is that the movie was written and directed by Zach Cregger and Trevor Moore, who both star in the movie. Cregger and Moore were born in 1980 and 1981 so their script is a perfect example of the pervasiveness of the R-word within that generation's vernacular and shows just how high the lack of awareness is to the hurt the R-word causes millions of people.
None of the movie trailers or promotional materials use the R-word. My educated guess is there is a lot of dialogue along the lines of "You're so retarded" or "That's so retarded" and so forth.
The bottom line is, the R-word was used enough in the movie to prompt a reporter from the Chicago Tribune to make 2 of his 11 questions published in his article, about the R-word.
I am encouraging you to do four things:
1) Not spend your money to see the movie.
2) Let the writers and production company and distribution company know how you feel about the R-word being in the movie by calling them, emailing them or writing to them.
3) Go to www.r-word.org and make your pledge to not use the R-word. If you've already pledged, Spread the Word to your friends and family!
4) Don't have the time to write your own letter? Copy the text below and post it as a comment on my blog below and I will send the chain of comments via email myself,
"I will not spend money to watch this movie and I will do everything in my power to convince my family and friends not to spend money to watch this movie. It is time for Hollywood to stop using the word 'retard.'"
MARCH 13 UPDATE:
I came across an article on FilmCritic.com this morning that gives us more details on one way the R-word was used in this movie (I added the bold to the text). It's not pretty:
The best friend is Eugene (Cregger), a high-school student who doubles as an abstinence lecturer. Along with his devout girlfriend Cindi (Raquel Alessi), Eugene recounts how his brother had sex and then had "retard babies" that later went on to burn down his house and kill his mother. The tirade is accompanied by projections of Syphilis infected no-no areas.Please see below for how you can get ahold of the relevant people and let your voices be heard!
Zach Cregger:
Publicist is Jeffrey Chassen of Baker Winokur Ryder Public Relations (BWR)
Mailing Address:
World Wide Tower
825 8th Ave
New York, NY 10019
Phone: 2129013922
Email: jeffrey.chassen@bwr-ny.com
Trevor Moore:
Manager is Kara Walker of Generate
Mailing Address is:
1545 26th St.
Ste. 200
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: 310-255-0460
Email: kara@generatela.com
http://www.generateLA.com/
Distribution Company is Fox Searchlight:
Peter Rice, President
Fox Searchlight Pictures
10201 W. Pico Blvd.
Bldg. 38
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Phone: 310-369-4402
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/
Production Company is Jacobson Productions:
Tom Jacobson
Jacobson Productions
280 S. Beverly Drive
Suite 316
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Phone: 310-550-9319
SEPTEMBER 22 UPDATE:
First, my apologies for not updating this blog post before now as I should have done about 6 weeks ago, as various circumstances just didn't allow that to happen, but I digress. I'd like to offer a big THANK YOU to everyone who spoke out about this movie and to FOX because as this review of the "Miss March" DVD reports, each instance of the word "retard" was removed from this movie! Success! I encourage you to read the comments below the article I linked to above as they are pretty typical of most conversations about the R-word nowadays. The encouraging part about that is that a year ago during the "Tropic Thunder" protests comments in various articles were about 95 to 98 percent against our efforts. As you can see that ratio in this particular article's comments is much closer to a 60-40 split. I feel like that's significant progress toward shifting a societal paradigm, an incredibly encouraging development.
Additionally, I'd like to share a picture of an ad that our Spread the Word to End the Word Campaign put in the August 11 edition of Variety magazine to thank FOX for their support. Enjoy!
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 2388
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President Obama on Leno - What
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
By now (11:30am EST) on Friday March 20, just about everyone has heard about President Obama's remark on his bad bowling being, "like the Special Olympics or something" on Thursday night's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno."
This provides a unique opportunity for us to activate in the social media realm and make sure that we all get online and have our voices heard!
What you can do, and encourage others to do, is get on your own blogs, update your Facebook status, and get on Twitter to share your opinion about President Obama's gaffe. Then spread the word and encourage your friends and family to do the same!
All the major news outlets are covering this and offering the opportunities to comment and voice your opinion as well as thousands of conversations on blogs going on right now. One particularly interesting one in our Fan Community. So, not wanting to take away from the on-going discussion, I've posted below the official Special Olympics statement.
Here are some more links where you can engage in conversation and speak out!
MARCH 20, 2009
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM SPECIAL OLYMPICS CHAIRMAN
TIMOTHY SHRIVER
REGARDING U.S. PRESIDENT OBAMA S COMMENT ON
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO
President Obama called last night and expressed his regret and he apologized. He said that he did not intend to humiliate Special Olympics athletes or people with intellectual disabilities. He was sincere and heartfelt, and said that he is a fan of our movement and is ready to work with our athletes to make the United States a more accepting and welcoming country for all people with special needs.
Words hurt and words matter. Words can cause pain and result in stereotypes that are unfair and damaging to people with intellectual disabilities. And using Special Olympics in a negative or derogatory context can be a humiliating put-down to people with special needs.
This is a teachable moment for our country. We are asking young people, parents and leaders from all walks of life to engage in conversation and help dispel negative caricatures about people with intellectual disabilities. We believe that it s only through open conversation and dialogue about how stereotypes can cause pain that we can begin to work together to create communities of acceptance and inclusion for all.
Special Olympics is not a program, but a worldwide movement operating 30,000 events a year in more than 180 countries. Every one of them is a chance for people of all ages to get involved, to think differently about attitudes and perceptions they may have about people with intellectual disabilities, and to make a difference.
And so we challenge people to join our Spread the Word to End the Word campaign, a youth-led national awareness effort that will launch on March 31, where we are asking people to pledge their respect for people with special needs. We re asking people to sign our R-word pledge, to join in our Unified Sports programs, to volunteer, and to be fans of our athletes and our movement.
Additionally, we challenge policy leaders at all levels to commit to improving the support and resources for people with intellectual disabilities in areas such as healthcare, education, housing and recreation.
Finally, we invite the President to take the lead and consider hiring a Special Olympics athlete to work in the White House. In so doing, he could help end misperceptions about the talents and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities, and demonstrate their dignity and value to the world.
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 1994
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Do you Doubt that 'Retard' is
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
It's been a very interesting month of March thus far and we aren't even halfway thru yet. There has been so much buzz going around about Spread the Word to End the Word (STW2ETW) and new pledges have been coming into the R-word site in a steady stream of about 100 a day.
What's been most interesting to me is watching the interactions of youth on our various sites where all the STW2ETW material is being posted. On the Facebook Event page comments are flying back and forth, same thing on the Bill O'Reilly video posted on that event page.
There's a lot of support, but also a lot of typical negativity and ignorance or in some cases just plain apathy.
Take for instance Benjamin Heard of Wisconsin Stout who feels that we should just quit:
"It has become part of our language, your not going to change anything this is an entirely futile effort and kinda sad, you all need to find better things to do with your time"
Or Daniel Ross of Lincoln College Preparatory Academy who says:
"sry but this is really Retarded the word is ment to be an insult and thats why people use it as one u can't control wat people say when u call people retarded its supposed to be an insult even though they were born that way so wat THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE WORD RETARDED!!!"
And an ever popular argument from people like Johnny Dawyot from the Salesianum School who rationalize that,
"hey everyone you're retarded."
Now, trust me, comments like these are not new in the online community realm for anywhere we post videos or media related to Special Olympics and especially material advocating for people to choose to stop using the word "retard."
What is new over the last few weeks and months is that youth are fighting back and standing up for what they believe in in thoughtful and engaging ways.
Youth like Soeren Palumbo from Notre Dame who share,
"This is not an effort to legally ban a word or infringe on any 1st ammendment rights; do not misconstrue it as such. Rather, it is an effort to demonstrate the hurtful and negative effects that this word has even when used casually, effects parallel to any racial slur. It is our hope that when people are shown these effects that they will choose to stop using the word, not because they are forced to, but rather because they want to. We are hoping to end this word by societal consensus, not mandate."
Or Jeanne Griffith who responds,
"I find it interesting, and incredibly disappointing that there are still so many, who are so small minded as to completely MISS the point being made...[sic] This is about recognizing that all people, regardless of ability, intellect, economic status, ethnicity, are entitled to respect. No one is asking for censorship, and it has nothing to do with free speech. We are asking that adults, who care enough to measure their words, consider the impact of *this* word. We all engage in self monitoring, every day. WE choose our words with reason. Sometimes we choose to self censor in order to spare feelings or to show respect. We don't walk into a church and start cussing like a sailor, because we recognize how inappropriate that would be. This is what we are asking - for people to show the same level of forethought when considering this word."
Or my favorite, Chris Murphy from Wilmington, Delaware who simply challenges people to get involved and open themselves to a different perspective,
"And my offer still stands. Any individual who on here who has no/limited exposure to disabled folks and wants to continue to use this term "retard" than please contact me with your city and state and I will set you up with your local Special Olympics, United Cerebral Palsy or your local state funded disabled agency so you can volunteer. 3 hours is all I ask you do, I will make all of the necessary calls and set it up, you just show up, volunteer then come here and talk about how you do not care if using the "r" word effects someone."
Traditionally, family members (especially fiesty moms!), along with a few other advocates have voiced their displeasure at many disagreeable items in the media, or nasty comments by online readers, but this has been few and far between. It's truly inspiring to see the community of youth engaged in this discussion and taking it upon themselves to get involved and make their voices heard.
Make no mistake, this is a big step. Many, many online communities, businesses and schools have dozens of dedicated personnel who scour the Internet offering a counterpoint in the comment sections to dissenting opinions on topics in which they are invested, monetarily or emotionally. This has never been the case for Special Olympics and certainly not for misuse of the R-word -- until now.
As we know, there is always more to do! There are many, many opportunities for this "army of change" or these "warriors of acceptance" (please forgive my poor attempt for a 30-something to come up with a cool name!) to bring the fight outside the realm of Special Olympics initiatives or R-word based event pages.
Here's an idea, if you use "Google Alerts" set one of them for "retard" and "retarded" and see all the interesting things that come in from blogs or articles like:
The Young Turks who ponder:
"Has 'socialist' joined the ranks of words like 'retarded' and 'gay' as an all-purpose expression of something disagreeable? How long before we her kids saying, 'Man, that’s hella socialist.'?"
Or the Phillyist blog who dissect the issues surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles employee who was fired for calling the team "retarded" on his Facebook page.
When you see things like this, get out there on these blogs and in the comments section and speak out! Respond (respectfully, of course) to people's misconceptions and share ideas of where they can go to learn more or educate themselves. Help give a voice to our athletes who as John C. McGinley put it - are equipped to love, not to fight.
Get out there in cyberspace and be the change the world needs.
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 1298
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My Speech
- From: hannahkasal
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Description:
This is a speech that I presented with Dony Knight, to my school and at Regionals.
Hello, I'm Hannah Kasal and here with me is my good friend Dony Knight. We just got back from Boise, Idaho where we attended the Global Youth Activation Summit at the World Winter Games. 38 States and 20 Countries all attended the GYAS. Our role in attending was to gain knowledge to help modivate the youth to become more involved with Special Olympics and aware of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. One of the sessions we attended was about the R-Campaign. The R-Campaign is a movement going on across the world to stop people from using the word, "Retard". The R-word is a commonly used word in several people's vocabulary. Often times you'll hear someone say, "That's retarded" or "You're such a retard". Many people don't know it but they are using a inapropriate word that hurts and discriminates others. I would like to ask you all to speak up for yourselves ans others in helping stop this word from being used. Use RESPECT and take this word out of your vocabulary. Today as you walk around I'd like you to take a second to look at some of the R-word banners hanging upon some walls across the school and hopefully they will be a reminder of how ONE word can make someone feel. ONE word CAN and WILL make a difference. Thank You.
After giving this speech I've had several questions/comments/acknowledgements from students/teachers/athletes/spectators/family. The following day after giving this speech to my school at an assembly, I was sitting in class working when I heard someone say aloud, "That's so retarded!" I instantly looked up and was searching for the voice that had anounced this hurtful word when I looked across the room and as a young gentlemen in my class stood up he asked the student who said the word, "Did you listen to Hannah Kasal's speech yesterday!" And he then was quiet. He realized he had made a mistake and then apologized to me. So I would like all of you to know that ONE little thing could lead to another BIGGER and GREATER thing. Speak up because everyone has a voice and remember... One thing always leads to another.
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 1210
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Battling ignorance and the R-w
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
Today brought an interesting ebb and flow. For those who don't know, I work in communications at Special Olympics, Inc. and while we all wear many hats I generally work on branding and marketing and this Fan Community site as well as all the other social media presences around the Internet like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, etc.
Anyhoo, we've been working on putting together an event for the end of March, specifically 3.31.09, End the R-word Day. This event is the brainchild of our highly energetic and inspiring youth that started the SO College initiative last summer. The goal is to raise awareness around college campuses about the word "retard" or "retarded" and to educate college students about the hurtful nature of the word and to ask them to pledge to stop using the r-word.
The idea has picked up tons of grassroots momentum and is really taking off. So today, actor John C. McGinley was on the Bonnie Hunt Show and he was wearing a "Spread the Word to End the Word 3.31.09" t-shirt, provided by the aforementioned SO College youth. You may know John C. McGinley as Dr. Cox on the TV show "Scrubs." Well, he's also the parent of 11-year old Max who was born with Down Syndrome.
While attending our 2009 World Winter Games, Mr. McGinley was blown away by the enthusiasm and passion of our youth that are taking it upon themselves to educate their peers and activate them to create change. He agreed to be the celebrity spokesperson for 3.31.09 End the R-word Day and has been making the rounds on the TV Guide Channel and the Bonnie Hunt Show among others, while wearing the t-shirt promoting the event.
Well today's response was phenomenal. Bonnie Hunt's website was flooded with comments in support of the campaign. Our own R-word website received tons of new pledges to stop using the R-word and overall it was really great to see so much passion and activation throughout the day. It was one of those days where you really get to see the payoff of the hard work we all do in support of the athletes.
Then, near the end of the day, I got one of my 'Google Alerts' that immediately brought back the harsh reality of just how much work we all have to do as we move forward. The Google Alert told me that American Idol contestant Kris Allen said the following in an interview about his recent performance on the show in which he moved on to the final round of 12 contestants:
"I felt like I picked a song with an energy to it that maybe didn't need that guitar or whatever, and so you could dance around and kind of get into it. You know, it was kind of a lot of practicing in the room by yourself and making sure you don't look like a retard or an idiot on stage in front of a million people."
I felt like smacking my computer screen or letting an expletive or two escape. Then I relaxed and realized there are only two ways to go about dealing with people like American Idol's Kris Allen who continute to perpetuate negative stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities by using the R-word in a hurtful manner -- whether they know it or not.
The first way is to just accept things as they are and that despite any efforts so many of us continue to make, things aren't going to change.
The second way is to pin his comment up on my blog, along with many others like it so any time I feel like taking option 1, I can read this and revert back to the feeling of wanting to smack my computer screen.
So I'm choosing option 2 and using American Idol's Kris Allen's hurtful comment as further motivation to fight on, knowing that what we are doing by advocating for people with intellectual disabilities by calling for an end to the R-word is the right thing.
I hope you'll join me.
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 1188
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Celebrities in the Green Room
- From: 2009_Games_Fans
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Description:
On 9 February 2009_Games_Fans hung out backstage in the Celebrity Green Room during the Global Youth Rally at Taco Bell Arena in Boise, Idaho and chatted up the room on Special Olympics, Youth Activation and the R-word right here on our 2009 Games Celebrity Blog.
In the Green Room:
Matt Dallas and April Matson from ABC Family’s hit TV show “Kyle XY”
“The Bachelor’s” Lt. Andy Baldwin
Olympic Figure Skater, Scott Hamilton (aka to youth, “the guy from ‘Blades of Glory’”)
See what some of your favorite celebs had to say!
2009_Games_Fans: Special Olympics recently celebrated 40 years and is looking now to the next 40 years and beyond by engaging and activating youth to build a new generation of supporters. What does it mean to you to be involved in youth engagement for Special Olympics?
MD: You know, our show Kyle XY reaches out to a younger demographic and we really try and put those messages of acceptance and respect into our show, so for me it’s a great fit and this is just a ton of fun to be involved in.
AM: I’m a really big fan of preaching that you can achieve whatever you want to achieve, and that we only limit ourselves. If we let ourselves dare to achieve big things, we will.
Lt. AB: For me being in the Navy I really put merit into the importance of service and that each person needs to believe in themselves. I think its also really important for people to have mentors that can help them in various aspects of life, be it work, school, sports or life in general. Special Olympics gives those opportunities to a lot of people and I’m really excited to be a part of it.
SH: The thing I’m really impressed with is the sophistication level and the intelligence of this youth demographic. It’s just such an important and amazing time in life when you are forming a lot of opinions, realizing the potential you have to impact a community and you’re really looking to explore that instinct for independence, looking to plant your feet into something you’re passionate about. I thinks its crucial that Special Olympics is engaging youth now so they can get in now while all these things are happening in the lives of youth. Being involved in such a powerful movement of acceptance and respect is going to have a driving, lasting effect in the lives of all the youth. When you can get into the hearts and minds of people at a young age, it’s a life long effect.
2009_Games_Fans: A big call to action at the Global Youth Rally is to take these messages of respect and dignity back to schools and communities and get people to stop using the word “retard” or “the r-word.” What would your advice be to youth who may be unsure of how to approach their friends and family to ask them to stop using the r-word?
Lt. AB: I can only speak from my own experiences but the way I’ve always lived is to not be afraid to take risks, and not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s the only way to grow as a person and to succeed in life and I find it’s necessary to do that to establish who you are. I’ve coached Special Olympics basketball in Hawaii and been part of Best Buddies and it always blows me away the talent and the potential within the athletes when they are given the respect and mentors they deserve. When that happens, anything is possible.
MD: I would just tell them that if you believe in what you’re saying people will be able to see that and it won’t be cheesy. People respond to honesty, if you are confident in who you are and what you believe then people will listen.
AM: I agree with Matt and the way I try to do it is coming from a place of, “this is how it makes me feel.” When you speak up and tell someone, “Hey when you say that it makes me feel lousy” or “this hurts me” or whatever you want to say, people can’t argue with how something makes you feel.
SH: My 5 year old son Aidan recently told me that on the school playground another child said something awful to him. I asked him how that made him feel and he said it hurt and made him feel bad and that the other boy was awful for saying it. So I asked how he responded and he said, “I said it right back to him.” I asked him then, “well then doesn’t that make you awful too?”
Sometimes indifference can be a powerful tool. Words mean things, but we give words power. There are lots of hateful words and hateful language that diminishes others and what I try to teach Aidan is that how you communicate represents who you are and represents your intelligence level. How you present yourself is important. All of us are imperfect and if you choose to represent yourself through hateful language that demeans your fellow human beings, all of whom are imperfect, and if you choose to communicate in that way, then you know what, go right ahead if that’s what you want people to think of you.
2009_Games_Fans would like to thank all of our celebrity bloggers from the Green Room at Taco Bell Arena! We invite all of our readers to be a fan of acceptance and dignity and go check out some of the great things youth are doing with Project Unify, speaking out against the r-word and showing off their creativity in song and with 3-word videos! - Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 1138
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My Partner -- Michael, Lam Hue
- From: Sam_Tam
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Description:
My Partner -- Michael, Lam Huen Sum (Lecturer of Hong Kong Baptist University)
My name is Sam Tam and I am an athlete of Special Olympics.
Two years ago, I was chosen as an International Global Messenger of Special Olympics and since then, I started to preach, spread and convey the message of Special Olympics. At the Same time, Michael, Lam Huen Sum was appointed by SOI and SOHK as my mentor. He insisted on using the word of "Partner" more than "Mentor", as he thought that we are all coming to learn something in this world.
In my mind, Michael is an outgoing and generous gentleman and he is a good listener and adviser as well. When the obstacles and difficulties came to me, the first one I want to consult and confide is him. He gave me a lot of advices and he did assist me to pave my own way fluently and successfully.
Though two years is not a long time, we were very proud that we have been doing lots of jobs for Special Olympics and the people with intellectual difficulty together. We went to 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai, China and 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise Idaho, USA, we contributed a lot in Daniel’s Fund Sport Resource Academy meeting in Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA, we were chosen as MC in a lot of seminars, we were interviewed by different media and we.............. . What for? We showed the people that talent came with everybody naturally and we shouldn't bind ourselves with the word "Mentally Disability". We need to be loved, but we need to show the world that our love came intrinsically and unselfishly.
Though my term as International Global Messenger ended in February, 2009, but we are sure this is not the end but a beginning of another era for us to preach, to spread, to convey the messages of Special Olympics in different identities. Michael and I will enlist more athletes in HK to join the Athlete Leadership Program and let us promote the goodness of Special Olympics in our community and our world.
我的拍檔 – 浸會大學講師林絢琛
我是香港特奧會運動員譚偉業。
兩年前，我成為了特奧全球友好使者，開始擔起宣揚特奧的重任，同時，林絢琛成為了我的指導老師，不過，他比較喜歡稱自己是我的「拍檔」多於「指導老師」，因為他認為我們在相處的過程中都是一起學習。
在我的印象中，Michael性格隨和、大方，亦很願意聆聽我的想法和意見，這兩年來，不論我遇上什麼困難，我都是第一時間向他傾訴，因為他真是我最好的聆聽者，還給予我很多有建設性的意見，協助我在自己的領域上有更好的發揮。
兩年的時間其實不長，但是我們這對「拍檔」就為特奧，為智障人士做了很多我覺得很驕傲的事情，包括出席07及09年於中國上海及美國愛達荷洲舉行的特奧夏季及冬季世界比賽，又成為游泳技術小組成員，又試過拍檔做司儀，又出席過很多公開活動，一直以來我們都是一起並肩作戰，為的就是要與所有人知道，「才能」並不會因為「智障」兩個字而被受限制，更重要的是要帶出特奧運動員除了是需要「關愛」的一群，他們還會懂得無私地「愛」別人。
雖然我的全球友好使者的「任期」已經屆滿，但這不是「結束」，而是新的「開始」，因為全球友好使者的「精神」仍長留在我的心裏，這份「精神」推動我繼續將特奧理念傳給不同身份的人。未來我和Michael將會在香港招攬更多運動員參與「運動員領袖計劃」，延續我們推廣特奧的理念。
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 1068
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Hey its Patrick from Germany
- From: patrick77
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Description:
Hallo liebe Freude von Special Olympics,
mein Name ist Patrick Brehmer, 31 Jahre alt, aus Deutschland und ich bin sehr stolz einer der 12 International Global Messengers (IGM) zu sein. Meine Sportarten sind Skialpin und Schwimmen. Bei den Weltwinterspielen in Alaska 2001 habe ich eine Bronzemedaille im Riesentorlauf gewonnen und viele andere Medaillen bei nationalen Sommer- und Winterspielen in Deutschland.
Special Olympics und der Sport sind sehr wichtig für mich, ich bleibe dadurch fit und gesund. Durch meine Erfolge bei Special Olympics Veranstaltungen bin ich mutig und selbstbewusst geworden. Aber ich habe auch gelernt zu verlieren und zu verstehen, dass manchmal andere auch besser sind als ich.
Als IGM bin ich Botschafter für Special Olympics und ich versuche vielen Menschen von SO zu erzaehlen und zu zeigen, dass auch wir Athleten etwas leisten können und Spaß am Leben haben.
Ich habe gelernt wie man Reden haelt, wie man sich auf Empfaengen und Veranstaltungen benimmt, wie man mit der Presse arbeitet.
Ich bin bisher mit Special Olympics viel gereist, war z.B. in Estland, in Washington, Shanghai, Bruessel, Bukarest und jetzt bin ich in Boise/Idaho bei den Weltwinterspielen. Vielleicht habt Ihr mich und meine IGM-Freunde bei der Eroeffnungsfeier gesehen, wir haben die Weltkugel zur Flammenpyramide getragen, das war eine sehr schoene Aufgabe. Ich habe schon ein paar Reden gehalten und werde noch einmal beim Familienempfang sprechen.
Die letzten beiden Tage war ich mit meinem Kollegen Andy aus Australien in Sun Valley. Mit Billy Kidd, einem Olympiateilnehmer und Weltmeister im Alpin Skiing, Jim Grossman, anderen beruehmten Leuten und Athleten aus Idaho bin ich skigelaufen und konnte so zeigen, dass auch wir Athleten mit Behinderung sehr gute Sportler sind. Für mich ist es manchmal leichter etwas zu zeigen, als darueber zu sprechen.
Es waere super, wenn noch viele Menschen mit Behinderung zu Special Olympics kommen wuerden, denn Sport macht Spaß und haelt fit.
Mit meiner Erfahrung als IGM haben wir bei Special Olympics Bayern mit einem ALP (Athlete Leadership Program) Training begonnen. 5 Athleten aus Bayern haben in diesem ersten Training ueber Special Olympics gelernt und ihre erste Rede gehalten, im Maerz geht das Training weiter.
Leider endet unsere IGM-Amtszeit dieses Jahr, es war eine tolle Zeit und wir 12 IGMs sind Freunde geworden, wir helfen einander und hatte zusammen Spass. Ich hoffe, dass es irgendwann wieder einen IGM aus Deutschland geben wird und wuensche der neuen Klasse viel Spass und Erfolg. Ich bin sehr stolz und dankbar ein Teil der Special Olympics Familie zu sein.
Translation:
Hello dear friends of Special Olympics,
my name is Patrick Brehmer, 31 years old, from Germany, and I am very proud to be one of the 12 Special Olympics International Global Messengers. I am an alpine-skier and a swimmer. I won a bronze-medal at the 2001 World Winter Games in Alaska in the Giant-Slalom and a lot of medals at national summer and winter games of Special Olympics Germany.
Special Olympics and sport is very important for me, I stay fit and healthy. My efforts in different SO competitions helped me to become brave and self-confident. But I also had to learn to loose and to accept that sometimes other athletes are better than I.
As IGM I am an ambassador for Special Olympics, I try to talk to many people about Special Olympics and to show that we athletes with a disability are able to do our sports and that we also have fun. I learned how to give speeches, how to behave and who to work with the media.
I travelled a lot with Special Olympics, I was in Estonia, in Shanghai, in Washington, in Ireland, in Shanghai and now I am here in Boise/Idaho for the World Winter Games. Perhaps you saw me at the opening ceremony. We brought the globes to the caldron. That was a nice task. I gave already some speeches and tomorrow I will give a speech at the family reception.
The last two days I was in Sun Valley with my Australian friend Andy. I skied with Billy Kidd, a famous US Olympian and World Champion in skiing, Jim Grossman, more celebrities and athletes from Idaho. I could show them, that we special athletes are good sportsman. Sometimes it is easier for me to show something than to talk about it.
It would be great, if more people with handicap would join Special Olympics, sport is fun and helps to stay or become fit and healthy.
With my experience as IGM we started the first ALP (Athlete Leadership Program) training in Special Olympics Bavaria. 5 athletes learned about Special Olympics and the movement and gave their first speeches. The next training will be in March.
Unfortunately our period as IGM will end this year. We had an outstanding time and we 12 IGMs became friends, we helped another and we had fun together. I hope that someday there will be another Special Olympics International Global Messenger from Germany and I wish the new class effort and fun. I am very proud and thankful to be a part of the Special Olympics Family.
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 1018
- Not yet rated
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Obama's hurtful words
- From: BowlingDowns
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Description:
I am a very strong person I am told. But when the man that I helped with my love and talk about him makes fun of me and my friends, that makes me sad... I BOWL GOOD! I am not as good as other people, but I am trying harder to be better. I will be better.
Please go to:
http://digg.com/politics/Olympian_Caitlin_Cox_said_Obama_s_words_Made_her_sad
People say that he did not mean it but when people are nice they never say things like that. I am sad but I dont like to be sad. It hurts sometimes. I want to be like my friends. I m not special. I can do anything he can do too. Now I could even be a President...
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 975
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I Feel Honored being with Spec
- From: Rockie
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Description:
My name is Jiang Jun, a Special Olympics athlete from Wuxi, Jiangsu province in China. As one of the GYS delegates, I participated in the World Summer Games held in Shanghai in 2007 and made lots of friends who come from the other parts of the world. I have seen many fresh things and taken in many new ideas through discussion, interview, webinar etc., which enhance my ability and boost my confidence.
I found a job at KFC after being back to Wuxi. My boss was not to know that I was a Special Olympics athlete at first. In December 2008, I was invited to take part in the East Asia Regional Athlete Congress and I went to ask for leave. When my boss asked for the reason, I explained that I was an athlete and selected to attend the first SOEA Regional Athlete Congress. And also, I told him that I had been one of the Shanghai World Games. He was so delighted and announced to all staff at KFC “We have a leader from Special Olympics”. Soon after, my pictures with Global Youth Summit and ALPs Governance Training were displayed in the Hall of Fame of Staff. Every guest who sees them give me a thumbs-up sign.
Special Olympics made me being successful and happy. Special Olympics made me being recognized by Society.
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 972
- Not yet rated
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Closing Ceremonies and an Amaz
- From: DustinSOSC
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Description:
I did not find out until 4 hours before closing ceremonies that I would be speaking at them. I was so honored to meet a new hero of mine, he is an Athlete for Special Olympics Russia and competes in Speed Skating. He suffered a major cut of his acillies muscle and fell down on lap two of a five lap race. What happed after that was the most amazing story of these games. He got up and finished the race after suffering that cut, then was taken to the hospital for surgery. This athlete is my new hero, having so much bravery and curage to get up and finish a race after a serve injury like that. We honored him at closing ceremonies and Tim Shriver gave him a gold medal for his bravery. After hearing Tim do this I cried because it was so emotional for me, because I can say that I would have never done what this Athlete did. He told Tim after the surgery in the Hospital the major reason why he got up and finished the race was because he did not want to let his country and teammates down. After that took place and a couple other things I had a great job and that was to thank the Athletes and the State of Idaho for putting on these games and giving it there all like the athlete from Russia. After I got off the stage I went over to hang out with Team USA and see some of my teammates from my Area back home. Sam Mesa a Snowboard finished 4th in all of his races and Manasa Iyer for Snowshoeing took a Silver, Bronze and 4th place. I have to say what was in my lines for closing ceremonies that I think everyone should use at there closing ceremonies for any event that has a Oath and that is, "You athletes lived up to the oath. No matter how many gold medals were won, that is the best victory of all." Today is going to be a rough day for me and I will blog about it when I get back home to Southern California.
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 958
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Global Youth Rally 2009 Blog b
- From: dwelsh
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Description:
Two students, one recent graduate (rap artist "Rush"), and one instructor from the Arlington Career Center in Arlington, Virginia traveled to Boise, Idaho to take part in the Global Youth Rally at the 2009 Special Olympics Winter Games. The Career Center is in integrated school where students of all abilities (diff-abilitied students) participate in the same classes.
The students produced R-word commercials (posted on this website), and "Rush" along with music producer "kj" produced an original song and video called "Unify". The song was performed live by Rush at the Youth Rally. Their experience was unforgettable and even life-changing at this amazingly inspirational event. You can read about it on this blog:
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 939
- Not yet rated
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Poem from Steven Coston
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
Hi all,
Recently Steven Coston, an athlete and global messenger from Special Olympics New Jersey, pictured right, shared a poem with our communications team at Special Olympics and I wanted to make sure everyone in our Community got a chance to read it, so enjoy! Great job Steven!
Let me win―by accepting me the way I am.
Let me win―in educating me with one-on-one professional tutors.
Let me win―by giving me health-care stability.
Let me win―by having inclusion programs in our schools from elementary to college.
Let me win―by having a decent well-paying career.
Let me win―to live a decent independent lifestyle in a house or apartment.
Let me win―in getting involved with the community and getting along with my everyday peers.
Let me win―by having increased Unified Sports® involvement in team events.
But if I cannot win―do not criticize me.
Do not use the R-word.
Do not label me because I look or learn differently.
Do not segregate or discriminate against me.
Do not bully me.
Do not betray me.
Do not limit my potential to earn, learn and live a stable lifestyle like everyone else.
Let me be brave in the attempt―to move forward out of poverty.
To have more federal funds and money to improve our survival in post secondary and higher education programs for special education students and disabled adults.
To expand in other talents in which I am capable and living a productive life.
To have common ground that we are all created equal and have justice in all opportunities in education, health care, career, shelter, food, clothing and in all challenges of life.
As the world is in the 21st century, this nation has learned about what happened in the 20th century in what the civil rights movement was all about, in which the Special Olympics athletes and disabled children and young and older adults were the central core of this movement.
What took place on 20 July 1968, from the first Special Olympics establishment to the nations first African American President of the United States of America―it means the impossible dream has come true!
- Blog post
- 6 months ago
- Views: 931
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what is athlete leadeer ship p
- From: andywilliams
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Description:
ALPs gives Special Olympics athletes the chance to learn new skills, take on leadership roles in their community and show what they are capable of on and off the sporting field.
Athletes in the program speak to the public, attend functions, serve on boards and committees, and create opportunities for athletes to have their say within the organisation. Athletes in the program may also be a volunteer, official or coach. Giving back to the organisation and inspiring other younger athletes
I did not know About alps antill 2006 I am putting this blog in so when Athletes hear about alps in there region they go for it
If you have ever met A mentor and want to know more about it read below
Mentors play a vital role in all aspects of ALPs.Becoming a mentor is a rewarding role for a volunteer and enhances their understanding of intellectual disability.
A mentor helps an athlete with all aspects of their ALPs role by providing their time and sharing their skills. Like the athletes in ALPs, mentors need training to provide them with the skills to support athletes through their development
Mentors come from all parts of the community but should not be a member of the athletes immediate family.ALPs is about developing independence and self advocacy.
if you are still reading up to this point below is what trainings you can do
Training courses are available to athletes to help them develop the skills for these roles. They should atttend the training courses with their mentor.
Athletes as Global Messengers
Providing training in public speaking for athletes interested in representing Special Olympics in their own community.Athletes in Governance
The training prepares athletes to participate in decision making and discussions through membership on Boards or local committees. Training focuses on awareness and listening skills for not only athletes but also for their mentors.Athletes as Volunteers
Provides athletes with an introduction and understanding of the responsibilities of volunteering, by becoming an official or coach.Any Q ?
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 928
- Not yet rated
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Dear Special Olympics
- From: coop8163
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Description:
Dear Special Olympics,
I am a mentally challenged person who right now is very angry with your policies. I am very disappointed that you chose to have the games in China of all places. You claim you care about the mentally challenged, yet you dare to go into a country that has no respect for life and even has institutions that torture people like me, as well as countless other people with a variety of different kinds of disablities. I myself am a Special Olympics athlete, but I want and need for you to know that I am not afraid of you or what you may decide to do with me as a result of sending this message to you. You do not represent me or my kind. You represent stupid liberals in DC like Obama, who don't give a crap about people like me. So you do what you want with me, but I will stand up for what I believe and know to be right, whether you like it or not.
Coop
- Blog post
- 10 months ago
- Views: 919
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Virginia Coach Wins UPS Commun
- From: Holly_Claytor
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Description:
Congratulations to Special Olympics Virginia Area 6 coach Richard Koch, who recently won the UPS Jim Casey Community Service Award, which is granted to one UPS employee each year to recognize outstanding community service. Koch was rewarded for his long-standing commitment to Special Olympics Virginia.
For the UPS video on Richard's award go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3-unBpsdGg.
During the last 12 years, Koch, who is director of accounting operations for UPS Freight, has logged nearly 70 volunteer hours for the organization per month, serving as a league director, coach and tournament director. He also developed the Manchester Invitational Basketball Tournament, the largest tournament for Special Olympics in the state of Virginia conducted entirely by volunteers. He further uses his accounting skills to help strengthen the agency's management and fundraising capacity.
Koch's son is the inspiration behind his commitment to Special Olympics Virginia. As the parent of child with an intellectual disability, Koch believes that without Special Olympics, many social, recreational and competitive athletic events wouldn't be available for his son and others with disabilities.
The global UPS Jim Casey Community Service Award winner is chosen annually from nominations solicited from UPS's 425,000 employees. Congratulations, Richard!
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 897
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A small effort can brighten a
- From: LizaNolan
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Description:
Mary Ellen Weaving is an Autistic student and a Junior at Branford High School. She has been at BHS since Freshman year and is a participant with Unified Sports. Alyssa Gagliardi (Senior-Captain) worked with Mary Ellen at the High School. One night at a football game, Alyssa asked if Mary Ellen could come onto the field at half time as she loved cheerleading. Without hesitation, we invited her down. As the clock ran down to zero and the 2nd half was about to begin, I realized that Mary Ellen was still on the field. One of the girls gave her a cheer cube to stand on. Another gave her their pom poms to use. Mary Ellen stayed on the field the whole second half and the kids just accepted her.
On Monday morning, I recieved a call from a parent (which as you know is usually never good). The woman on the other end introduced herself as Mary Ellen's mother, MIchelle. As she took a deep breath in, you could hear that she was obviously emotional. She proceeded to tell me that it has been a struggle to get Mary Ellen to school ever since she started. And on that Monday, after the football game on Friday night, Mary Ellen couldn't leave the house fast enough to go see "all her new friends on the cheerleading team".
That night at prctice, I sat down and told them the story. I wanted to make sure they got the real message here. What may have been a small effort on their part like giving their pom poms or even just talking to Mary Ellen made the biggest difference to her. They needed to realize that even the smallest gesture can have the biggest impact. I wanted them to think about their actions going forwards - how hard is it to help pick up someone's books in the hallway? To step in if someone is getting picked on? Or just to smile/say hello for no reason...little things can go a long way - proof was right here with Mary Ellen.
After that call, without hesitation, we got Mary Ellen a uniform. The kids designed her own cheer cube for her. She has been a prominent member of the team ever since. She participates at the games, watches at practices and even colors the kids' pictures on key days like States or Senior Day. This Friday night (3/6) on Channel 3, they will be doing a feature on this story with the kids that helped make Mary Ellen's life at BHS a little brighter.
Megan Link, Branford High School, Cheerleading Coach
- Blog post
- 4 months ago
- Views: 891
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Spread the Word, a Q&A
- From: ryaneades
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Description:
Recently I gave an interview for a high school student (Fan Community member BigOtaku) and I thought that as we approach March 31st and the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign continues to gain momentum, that this might serve as a helpful resource as you find yourselves in conversations with friends and family who want you to explain to them what it is that we are doing.
The Q&A transcript is below. Thanks.
Q: What do think when you hear the phrase, "Spread the Word, to End the Word."?
A: I think of how powerful and inspiring youth activiation can be in today's world. This campaign came about as a collaboration of 120 youth with and without intellectual disabilities who wanted to make a difference. It's inspiring.
Q: Do you feel as though ignorance can cause people to say such hurtful things to others?
A: There will always be hurt in the world, it is human nature. I think that with the R-word in particular, it is a lack of exposure and a lack of education that has gotten us to where we are today. I know I used to say 'retarded' all the time to describe a fun night or something stupid that I did. I never meant any malice towards people with intellectual disabilities. I was lucky enough to then be exposed to athletes of Special Olympics and I immediately came to the understanding of why the R-word is hurtful and I haven't used it since. So yes, the ignorance of the 'why' is a big reason, but the lack of inclusive education or social interaction is even more important. When you are exposed to something early in life, you just accept it as part of life. When things are hidden away in a corner as people with intellectual disabilities were for so long in our society, and you don't get exposed to difference until later in life it is human nature to be nervous or hesitant around difference. The really sad thing is some people act out against difference because they are unwilling to make the effort to say, "I'll learn something new, maybe it'll be good for me!" They'd rather say, "Be more like me or leave me alone and go away."
Q: Some people may think that "Spread the word, to end the word" is nothing more than hyper-sensitivity, what do you feel about this?
A: The hypersensitive or "PC" argument is one we hear a lot, and I understand where it’s coming from, but I think it misses the point. We also hear the freedom of speech argument a lot, which really misses the point. We hear that 'retard' is a medical diagnosis and therefore it should be fine to say. Of course the medical diagnosis 'mental retardation' is just that, a diagnosis. But there is no denying that the words 'retard' and 'retarded' have taken on distinct connotations within the vernacular of our society that are used interchangeably in describing something that was less than ideal, or something that was way out there or different. So while many people know they would not call a disabled person 'retarded' to their face, what they don't understand is when they say their friend is being 'retarded' they are saying their friend is being less than ideal, or acting way out there or different. This makes people with intellectual disabilities and their loved ones feel as though society regards them as less than human. Our country has a history of changing its vernacular out of sensitivity to several groups of our fellow human beings. This change came about because those groups fought for the right to have their humanity respected as much as the next person. People with intellectual disabilities are in general predisposed to give love, to care, not to look for a fight. While there are many people with ID that are articulate and will go toe to toe with you in a debate, they are the exception within the population. Lastly, to this point I'd say this - when a human being tells another human being, "when you say this it hurts me. Could you please stop?" How do you argue with that? Why would you not afford them the same respect you'd want in return?
Q: Are there phrases or words that are worse or more hurtful than others that someone might say to a person with a mental disability?
A: There are many words, phrases and hurtful things to say. Too many to list. Here's the important thing - people with ID are people first. Do not label them. Retard is a label. A disability is not a person, but rather, people have disabilities. Think about it like this - if you break your foot, you are not a 'broken footed person' you are a person with a broken foot. So always remember to see the person first and use that people first language, that's the best way to respect everyone's humanity.
Q: Do you feel as though this cause is supported enough, or could more awareness be much more helpful?
A: More awareness is always helpful. Until people start to recognize the humanity of people with intellectual disabilities as equal to their own, and as worthy of respect as their own, there will always need to be more awareness. Think about the movie "Tropic Thunder." Most people just excused the movie's portrayal of people with ID and the continued use of the word 'retard' as funny and in context. Well, swap out 'nigger' or 'Jew' or 'spic' or 'faggot' for the word 'retard' in that five minute scene where Ben Stiller says 'retard' 17 times. What do you think the reaction would have been? Here's the biggest rub - the makers of that film screened it for African Americans, for Veterans, for just about every group they were 'offending' in the movie. Not one single group who advocates or supports people with ID was invited to screen the movie and offer feedback. It was never a thought in their mind to invite us to the table, never a thought that it MIGHT be a problem. So until the same respect is shown to people with ID, more awareness will always be needed.
Q: Is this cause worth the effort, can something really change?
A: Apathy is the worst kind of existence. Why do anything if nothing can change? I know things can change. For pete's sake, we just elected the first African American President of the United States. What do you think someone interviewing Martin Luther King Jr in 1963 before the March on Washington would have said about that!!! In my own experience I've changed people attitudes by engaging them in conversation and educating them about what it is exactly that they are doing. My own example from the earlier answer from when I used the R-word is proof that change can happen. So what if it's one person at a time? I know I have co-workers, friends and advocates who are all out there doing the same thing with the goal of one person, one attitude at a time. Are you going to wake up tomorrow and never hear the R-word again? Probably not. But maybe our work will allow my daughter, who is due to be born this July, to live in a world where all people are respected.
Q: How do you feel about John C. McGinley’s support of this cause?
A: I'm really excited John C. is involved. With Max, his 11 year old son born with Down Syndrome, he's been a great ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society for years. The truth is we are a celebrity obsessed culture so it's great to have a celebrity ambassador for this campaign because it’s just another way to get people to pay attention and hear the message. That's the most important thing, to get people to hear the message, because we all believe that as a whole, the person is good and we know what we are doing is right, so it only stands to reason that we believe the more people hear our message the more people will come to understand the importance of respecting people with intellectual disabilities. Plus, I cannot lie; I've been a HUGE 'Scrubs' fan for years, so it's great to have the big guy on board!
Q: Why do you think people make fun of someone who is mentally challenged, or has mental disabilities?
A: That goes back to my earlier point of fearing difference. It takes effort to reach out and learn something new. It's easier to just laugh at difference so you can feel better about yourself for being too much of a coward to make the effort to learn and accept difference. The path of least resistance transcends much more than people with intellectual disabilities though, it's true of how people react to all differences from sexual orientation, to religion, to skin color or heritage. People fear what they do not know. The weak act out through violence, mockery and hate. The strong reach out with a willingness to include and learn, then accept their own inevitable failures during the process, but continue to try again and again.
- Blog post
- 8 months ago
- Views: 863
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Will and I
- From: slunetta
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Description:
This was my college essay
I first met Will when I was in middle school, but I didn’t know him, know who he was, or what he was about. I wasn’t a misinformed youth, though; I knew about mental and physical disabilities through my parents’ work at Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center. So I didn’t think, as most would, “what is wrong with that kid?” I just was curious, as all people are: who was he? What is he like? I knew he must be cool because he was hanging out with my Sensei, Jim Aborn.
When I first got to high school, I was still trying to figure out who I was, and halfway through sophomore year I went into the Life Skills room and asked if I could volunteer for the Special Olympics. That was probably one of the best decisions that I have made in my life. The first event I went to was the regional Winter Olympics. When I got on the bus, I was a little nervous, the way you get when you try something for the first time. Will walked onto the bus, everyone started yelling, “Hey, Will!” and “What’s up, man?” He reminded me of a rock star as he entered. When he fist-bumped me I instantly felt welcome.
I had a blast. When my mom picked me up from the bus, I flat out told her that that was the single greatest experience I had ever had. I felt I had found my calling. As the year went on, I attended as many Special Olympic events as possible. The more I attended, the more I connected with Will, and we became close friends.
The opportunity to go to camp with Will first arose during the summer of 2007. I was watching TV with my brother. The phone rang, the voice on the phone was a teacher at my school named Lisa Cochran. Why was I talking to a teacher after I just got out of school two weeks ago? She told me that there was a sleep-away camp that her son attended each year, but this year she had the dilemma of him not wanting to go. She asked him if he would like it more if I joined him, and his eyes lit up and he immediately wanted to go.
At the time, Will was eighteen. He has an amazing sense of humor, infectious smile, a love of music, and he is a little mischievous. But the main reason I would be attending camp with him would be the fact that he has Down Syndrome, and I was going to be his buddy. The second I heard this offer I exclaimed “Yes!”
Last summer I attended the camp with Will. When we arrived, Lisa briefly gave me some pointers. We then were left to fend for ourselves; it was liberating and exciting. I had a slight gist of how Will worked, his routines, his eating habits, and his communication. I was not as aware of these as I am now, but it was something that I knew. But none the less I was out of my comfort zone, the place where I feel like I excel. And not to boast but in this particular case I did. We went and found our cabin first, I had never attended this camp so I was not sure how it works or how I was going to be treated. So we went to unit two where we would be spending our next week, we got into our cabin and assimilated.
I was responsible for Will, but I felt like his peer, and that’s how he thinks of me. Good friends help each other, make each other feel safe. That is what I did for Will, and what he did for me.
Will has taught me much more than just how to work with people with Down Syndrome. He has taught me about myself: how to be a good person, a better person. He has given me abstract ways to look at everything, by challenging my first thoughts, and helping me interpret things the same way he does. He has also given me the greatest thing in the world: friendship. - Blog post
- 10 months ago
- Views: 848
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Let’s salute to Mrs. Eunice Ke
- From: chencong
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Description:
My name is Chen Cong and I am the Special Olympics Global Messenger of 2007-2009.
I am an ordinary Chinese girl and 23 years old. My parents are intellectually disabled too and I was brought up by my paternal grandmother. It was beyond the expectation of my family, friends and even myself that I would come to the United States the 2nd time and moreover I have a good paying job. They are so proud of me. All this has been brought to me by Special Olympics who also offers more opportunities to the people with intellectual disabilities like myself for fair participation and infinite development.
I would like to thank Mrs. Unice Kennedy Shriver and pay my tribute to this dream founder. Over the past 40 years since the first Special Olympics Games held in 1968, she has been active in promoting the movement around the world. The Special Olympics World Games were spread from the United States to Europe, and then in 2007 to my hometown – Shanghai, China. Successful staging of the World Games in Shanghai China has had a profound influence. Special Olympics has entered in people’s heart and more people with intellectual disabilities have been accepted.
Mrs. Unice Kennedy Shriver is a good wife, a loving mother, but also a great humanitarian. Let’s salute to her grand foresight and broad mind!
- Blog post
- 9 months ago
- Views: 827
- Not yet rated
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