Page 42 - Youth Demo

The Issue
Today, our world is more divided than ever and inclusion has never been more urgent. Exclusionary mindsets have resulted in a world full of isolation, stigma and shame for millions. Inclusion is a human right that is out of reach for people on the fringes of society, especially for those with an intellectual disability (ID), who suffer greatly from negative attitudes and cultural barriers that prevent many from living a full life of dignity, meaning and purpose. An inclusive future where stigma and isolation no longer plague the marginalized requires a generational tipping point; one that encourages the development of constructive, healthy mindsets willing to accept those who are different.
Disability Facts & Statistics
Special Olympics is championing the inclusion of people with ID, having grown into one of the strongest global movements for inclusion and social change since its inception in 1968. With inclusive programming in over 190 countries and territories and reaching over six million people, Special Olympics is the largest grassroots disability sports organization in the world. Together we are breaking down barriers and promoting acceptance in schools and communities across the globe.
Special Olympics Uni ed Champion Schools is a strategy for schools Pre-K through university that intentionally promotes meaningful social inclusion by bringing together young people with and without ID to lead in the creation of accepting school environments. Through this evidence-based programming®, youth have structured opportunities to learn how to encounter difference with positivity through inclusive sport and leadership development. This social and emotional learning experience creates an inclusive mindset in youth participants while also embedding inclusion as a cultural norm.
“ With inclusive programming in over
190 countries and territories reaching over 6 million people, Special Olympics is the largest grassroots disability sports organization in the world.”
The population is
signi cant...
Children with disabilities make up close to half of the 65 million children who do not have access to school.
The price of their
exclusion is high...
In addition to human costs, the ILO estimates price of exclusion of persons with disabilities at 3-7% of GDP in Low and Middle Income Countries.
Social infrastructure is the major barrier...
The most signi cant barriers
to inclusion of children with intellectual disabilities (ID) are negative attitudes and a lack of meaningful data.
The Solution:Special Olympics Unified Champion SchoolS
February 2020
Special Olympics
Unified Champion Schools®
THE ISSUE OF OUR TIME
Lever For Change 41