02.15.23

Durbin Meets With Special Olympics Illinois

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with athletes, students, teachers, staff, and the Board Chair from Special Olympics Illinois to discuss the nonprofit’s mission of championing the rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities through sports.  During the meeting, Durbin heard from athletes about how the program has impacted them and offered them leadership opportunities. 

Durbin and the representatives from Special Olympics Illinois also touched on the nonprofit’s Healthy Athletes program, which facilitates access to health screenings and health promotion, and Unified Champion Schools, which foster whole school inclusion.

“The first Special Olympic games were held in Chicago at Soldier Field in July 1968.  It was a joy to meet with athletes today who are carrying on the torch decades later,” said Durbin.  “I’ll continue to be a strong federal partner of Special Olympics and advocate for the volunteers, staff, and athletes who participate in the program each year.”

A photo of the meeting is available here.

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