Para Games is no joke
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The 2014 Incheon Asian Para Games, with the theme "Impossible Drives Us", will take place two weeks after the Asian Games formally close.
Some 6,000 athletes and officials from 41 countries, including North Korea, will vie for medals by displaying their unique special abilities.
More and more, the so-called “handicapped” are flexing their muscles, seeking to ensure self-empowerment and non-restrictive social inclusion.
The aim is to bolster demands for greater equal opportunities, in order to become functional contributors to their families, communities and nations. Global citizens should join together to envision a tolerant, multiversity cosmos where there is no place for biased prejudice of any kind.
Everyone has a disability of some kind, lacking in one way or another. “Handicap” is a matter of warped perception, too often based on myths and fears, ignorance or indifference.
We must all learn to reach beyond limitations to overcome blinder, defeatist attitudes. Respectful dignity is non-negotiable.
Let’s cheer the indomitable, courageous passion and dedicated commitment of each and every athlete as they continue to pursue personal best excellence with toughness, dedication and inner strength.
Thai physically-challenged athletes will compete with high hopes of bringing fame to their nation, hometown and families.
The paralympics movement’s core values are courage, determination, inspiration and equality. Coaches play an indispensable role as character builders and morale-boosting trainers during intensive pre-games preparation.
People with disabilities aren’t seeking special treatment or favours. All they request is equal consideration, opportunity, access, rights and dignity.
How we refer to, label and depict individuals is important to their self-confidence and growth. When we think of Edison or Marconi or Beethoven, we focus on their extraordinary abilities, not their perceived disabilities.
Negative stereotypes, pessimistic expectations and defeatist attitudes are the real disabilities. Consciousness-raising and sensitivity awareness stem from learning, unlearning and relearning to think beyond stereotypes, replaced with tolerance and heartfelt respect. Chai-yo!
Charles Frederickson
