In moments of crisis and adversity, people with intellectual and developmental differences are at much greater risk and almost invariably suffer a greater adversity than their non-disabled peers. In the incidents we are all seeing from the border in recent days and weeks, people with intellectual disabilities—in particular, children and very young children—are being separated from their families and almost certainly suffering greater degrees of injustice, trauma and fear than their non-disabled peers.
In moments such as these, we ask that responsible members of the media, political leadership and culture show the appropriate respect for the struggles of this population and respond appropriately with immediate changes to policies so that these children can remain with their families and have the best chance of a hopeful, nurturing and supportive future.
About Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a global inclusion movement using sport, health, education and leadership programs every day around the world to end discrimination against and empower people with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1968, and celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, the Special Olympics movement has grown to more than 5 million athletes and Unified partners in more than 170 countries. With the support of more than 1 million coaches and volunteers, Special Olympics delivers 32 Olympic-type sports and over 108,000 games and competitions throughout the year. Special Olympics is supported by individuals, foundations and partners, including the Christmas Records Trust, the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics, The Coca-Cola Company, United Airlines, The Walt Disney Company and ESPN, Microsoft, Lions Clubs International, Bank of America, Essilor Vision Foundation, the Golisano Foundation, Safilo Group, and TOYOTA. Click here for a full list of partners. Engage with us on: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and our blog on Medium.