Athletes seek inclusion at Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games

Posted on June 7, 2019

Special Olympians march into Illinois State University’s Hancock Stadium Friday night. (Special Olympics Illinois photo.)

By Howard Packowitz

The Flame of Hope burns bright at Illinois State University’s Hancock Stadium for some 4,000 athletes competing at this weekend’s Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games.

The Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run that led up to Friday night’s opening ceremony raised $4.75 million for Special Olympics, exceeding the goal of $4.4 million, according to torch run director and Westchester Police Chief Steve Stelter.

“Athletes of Special Olympics Illinois, your courage, your strength, and commitment has inspired the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run to continue to reach new heights,” said Chief Steve Stelter.

Leading the athletes in reciting the oath was Melissa Campbell, who’s competed with the Olney Rebels for 38 years.

“Let me win, and If I can not win, let me brave in the attempt.”

Athlete and Special Olympics Illinois board member Kimberly Stivers said she and others still experience discrimination and a stigma associated with intellectual disabilities despite progress in the so-called Inclusion Revolution.

“I hope you will consider making inclusion a priority,” said Stivers.

“This weekend, when you are posting pictures to your social media, I invite you to use the hashtag #choosetoinclude, and use it every day until no one has to worry about being included,” Stivers said.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

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