A Brief History
On July 20, 1968, the first International Special Olympics for intellectually challenged people was held in Chicago’s Soldier Field. About a thousand athletes competed that day, and today over 4 million participate every year in 170 countries!
Digging Deeper
Started by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the sister of President John F. Kennedy, in 1962, the Special Olympics were particularly personal to the Kennedy family as John and Eunice had a sister that suffered from mental deficiency for which she was given a lobotomy in hopes of correcting her problem, but it only gave her more brain damage.
At the Chicago International Special Olympics it was announced that there would be Special Olympics World Games held every 2 years, alternating between summer and winter games. In 1977 the first Special Olympics World Winter Games were held in Colorado. Another milestone took place in 2003 when the first Special Olympics World Summer Games held outside of the United States was held in Dublin, Ireland.
Endorsed by the International Olympic Committee who gives permission to use the Olympic name and numerous celebrities, many former Olympic athletes also endorse the games. Events include individual and team activities, much like the regular Olympics.
The Special Olympics not only gives the “special” athletes the chance to compete and have fun, it also encourages them toward fitness and improves public perception of mentally challenged people.
Critics do not necessarily agree, and say that these games cause a segregation effect against the mentally challenged. These critics argue that the games do not improve public perception of the “special” athletes, but actually does the opposite, reinforcing stereotypes and increasing prejudice. Critics also argue that mentally challenged people should be on the board and making decisions regarding the games and other issues.
Question for students (and subscribers): So what do you think? Are the Special Olympics a paternalistic, segregationist, perpetrator of stereotypes and creating a 2 class society of “normal” and “challenged” people? Or is it a wholesome activity that provides an outlet for people who otherwise would be denied the chance to compete. Tell us if you think these programs should be continued, halted or modified in the comments section below this article.
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Historical Evidence
For more information, please see…
Dinn, Sheila. Hearts of Gold: A Celebration of Special Olympics and Its Heroes. Blackbirch Pr Inc, 1996.
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