The Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 are shaking up the world, creating a "wave of inclusivity" that's sweeping through sectors beyond sports. This optimistic prediction comes from Andrew Parsons, the International Paralympic Committee's president, speaking during the Games' opening ceremony in the City of Light.
Parsons paints a stark picture of the situation for disabled individuals across various fields, labeling it as "startling." He dares to envision these individuals thriving by 2024, but only if we remove the obstacles that have been holding them back. He urges us to take action to boost inclusivity, from the sports field to the classroom, at concerts, and in corporate meetings.
Parsons is hopeful that the Paralympics will be a catalyst for change, with Paralympians striving for more than just personal glory. They're fighting for equality and inclusivity not just for themselves, but for the 1.3 billion disabled individuals worldwide.
Tony Estanguet, the committee's chair, adds to the chorus of optimism. He predicts a "gentle yet profound change" that will affect each of us individually and collectively. This transformation, he says, will occur swiftly, beginning on September 9, the day after the Paris Games.
Estanguet acknowledges that significant changes are needed. After the Paralympics, he envisions making inclusivity a habit everywhere, not just on the sports field.
Enrichment Data:
The Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 have made a significant impact on promoting inclusivity in various sectors, including culture, media, community engagement, and global accessibility.
- Cultural Olympiad: The Paris 2024 Cultural Olympiad showcased an extraordinary range of projects, from art installations to music performances. These events engaged all French territories and involved a high percentage of projects led by people with disabilities.
- Media Coverage and Public Perception: The Paralympic Games' extensive media coverage has helped change public perceptions of disability, breaking stereotypes and promoting inclusion. Approximately 94% of viewers reported that the Games had positively altered their perception of disabled individuals, providing new insights into the challenges faced by these athletes.
- Community Engagement and Social Impact: Projects like ELI (En Sus Marcas, Listos… Inclusion) have worked to deliver socio-economic inclusion for people with disabilities across the Americas. This partnership strengthened national Paralympic structures, increased awareness of Para sport, and changed perceptions of disability. It also provided access to Para sport in 41 vulnerable communities, trained 2,000 local leaders, and supported the development of Para athletes to compete internationally.
- Global Reach and Accessibility: The digital platforms used for the Paralympics, such as Peacock, have made the Games accessible to a global audience. This digital shift allows viewers to access the Games anytime and anywhere, contributing to a broader reach and inclusivity.
- Legacy and Sustainability: The Cultural Olympiad's legacy extends beyond the Games, with 65% of projects set to continue due to new funding. This commitment to sustainability ensures that the initiatives promoting inclusivity and cultural integration will have a lasting impact.
These initiatives demonstrate how the Paralympics have contributed to promoting inclusivity in various sectors, paving the way for a more inclusive future.
