The Paralympics have begun. But in Paris it’s not just about medals, it’s also about more acceptance for people with disabilities.
President Andrew Parsons of the International Paralympic Committee has described the situation for people with disabilities in many areas as “shocking”. They will only be able to compete in sport in 2024 if barriers are removed, said the Brazilian official in his speech at the opening of the Paris Paralympic Games. “This is proof that we can and must do more to promote inclusion – be it on the field, in the classroom, in the concert hall or in the boardroom,” said Parsons.
He hopes that the Paralympics can trigger a “revolution of inclusion.” “The participants in the Paralympics are also here to achieve something that goes far beyond personal glory,” he said. “They want equality and inclusion for themselves and for the 1.3 billion people with disabilities in this world.”
Tony Estanguet, head of the organizing committee, added: “It is a gentle revolution, but one that will change each of us profoundly and forever. An individual revolution, but one with a universal reach and a sudden revolution, because on September 9th we will wake up differently.” It will be the first day after the Paris Games.
Source: Stern
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