This one really got us fired up because ultimately, it’s so much bigger than how we typically think about sports. This is another powerful illustration of how sports as a movement, and in this case para-sport, can be a significant driver of positive — and much needed —cultural and social change.

The ability of sports to challenge deeply ingrained societal biases, reduce the stigma associated with disability, and help create inclusive infrastructure is a WIN | WIN of the highest degree.

The Tokyo and Paris paralympic games are shining examples of the long-lasting impact that’s possible. Beyond shifting perceptions, participation in para-sport has a profound empowering effect on individuals with disabilities. It can lead to increased self-esteem, improved physical and mental health, and a greater sense of independence and agency.

This initiative sets a strong precedent for how major sporting events can be leveraged to advance disability inclusion on a global scale, while also calling on governments to step up to help fund these needed improvements. It takes a village, and President Parsons took it upon himself to challenge all actors to do better.

YOUR NEXT PLAY:

So, what are you doing to contribute to this effort? That’s it. What’s your next play? How can we all better incorporate para-sports into our initiatives? We’d love to hear examples and success story from the WIN | WIN community!