Speaking Notes for Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies
(2002)
Good evening. On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador it is my honour and privilege to take part in the opening ceremonies of the Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics Summer Games.
Since 1986 our provincial chapter of the Canadian Special Olympics has given all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to witness some of the most exciting and inspiring athletic competition in our province. Our provincial chapter has a long history of developing positive and valuable athletic opportunities people who live with a mental disability.
So, when the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador was invited to take part in the opening ceremonies of the summer games, I was delighted. The Special Olympics are more than just athletic competition. These games offer our population an opportunity to applaud accomplishment, celebrate diversity and learn from victory.
While on the surface it may appear that the Special Olympics are unique because they are especially for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living with a mental disability, the actual uniqueness and value of these games runs a little deeper.
Perhaps most importantly, as we move towards the 21st Century, the Special Olympics are a symbol of a growing global respect for diversity. The games have historically changed the face of our social consciousness by demonstrating that people labelled with a "disability" are truly not "disabled" when given the opportunity to show their ability.
The Canadian Special Olympics were born due to the research of an individual that challenged social stereotypes concerning disability.
In the early sixties, Doctor Frank Hayden, a Toronto researcher and professor, demonstrated through various projects that, when given the resources and supports, people living with a mental disability were more than ABLE to become physically fit and acquire the skills necessary to participate in sport. While today this knowledge of capability is more common, in the 1960s it was a new approach that helped in breaking the stereotype given to people who live with a disability.
As the Special Olympics grew and expanded so did the positive effects these games have on our entire society. The games have evolved into a valuable demonstration of true sportsmanship that all of society can learn from. The Special Olympic’s Athlete’s Oath puts the approach to competition in perspective;
"Let me win, But if I cannot win, Let me be brave in the attempt."
Truly, the Games have become a positive learning experience on two levels. Firstly, they broaden society’s perception of people living with a disability. Secondly, they encourage a healthy approach to competition and team effort.
This emphasis on individual accomplishment is one that anyone, from any walk of life and in any situation can apply to all of life’s challenges. As with the oath, the Special Olympics measures achievement not in speed, distance or physical strength, but instead by dedication, determination, perseverance and personal growth.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate all athletes on your hard work and dedication. Over the next few days you face some healthy competition. However, I assure you that your personal achievements and the contributions you have made to your communities have already proved you to be victorious.
To the Special Olympic Board of Directors, Staff, Coaches and Volunteers I thank you for providing our athletes with support, enthusiasm and encouragement so they can reach their highest potential.
In conclusion, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I wish you luck in competition, I congratulate you on your proven success and most importantly, on behalf of the province, I thank you for your inspiration. Have a great Provincial Summer Games.
Thank you.
Since 1986 our provincial chapter of the Canadian Special Olympics has given all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to witness some of the most exciting and inspiring athletic competition in our province. Our provincial chapter has a long history of developing positive and valuable athletic opportunities people who live with a mental disability.
So, when the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador was invited to take part in the opening ceremonies of the summer games, I was delighted. The Special Olympics are more than just athletic competition. These games offer our population an opportunity to applaud accomplishment, celebrate diversity and learn from victory.
While on the surface it may appear that the Special Olympics are unique because they are especially for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living with a mental disability, the actual uniqueness and value of these games runs a little deeper.
Perhaps most importantly, as we move towards the 21st Century, the Special Olympics are a symbol of a growing global respect for diversity. The games have historically changed the face of our social consciousness by demonstrating that people labelled with a "disability" are truly not "disabled" when given the opportunity to show their ability.
The Canadian Special Olympics were born due to the research of an individual that challenged social stereotypes concerning disability.
In the early sixties, Doctor Frank Hayden, a Toronto researcher and professor, demonstrated through various projects that, when given the resources and supports, people living with a mental disability were more than ABLE to become physically fit and acquire the skills necessary to participate in sport. While today this knowledge of capability is more common, in the 1960s it was a new approach that helped in breaking the stereotype given to people who live with a disability.
As the Special Olympics grew and expanded so did the positive effects these games have on our entire society. The games have evolved into a valuable demonstration of true sportsmanship that all of society can learn from. The Special Olympic’s Athlete’s Oath puts the approach to competition in perspective;
"Let me win, But if I cannot win, Let me be brave in the attempt."
Truly, the Games have become a positive learning experience on two levels. Firstly, they broaden society’s perception of people living with a disability. Secondly, they encourage a healthy approach to competition and team effort.
This emphasis on individual accomplishment is one that anyone, from any walk of life and in any situation can apply to all of life’s challenges. As with the oath, the Special Olympics measures achievement not in speed, distance or physical strength, but instead by dedication, determination, perseverance and personal growth.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate all athletes on your hard work and dedication. Over the next few days you face some healthy competition. However, I assure you that your personal achievements and the contributions you have made to your communities have already proved you to be victorious.
To the Special Olympic Board of Directors, Staff, Coaches and Volunteers I thank you for providing our athletes with support, enthusiasm and encouragement so they can reach their highest potential.
In conclusion, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I wish you luck in competition, I congratulate you on your proven success and most importantly, on behalf of the province, I thank you for your inspiration. Have a great Provincial Summer Games.
Thank you.