Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
When Special Olympics launched in 1968, the mission was to end discrimination against individuals with intellectual disabilities through the power of sports. Inclusion has been at the forefront of the organization’s values since Day 1, and there cannot be true, all-encompassing inclusion without understanding the importance of diversity in a movement that seeks to break down barriers.
In the decades since its inception, the world has continued to change and Special Olympics, like the rest of the world, continues to adapt. Special Olympics Southern California values, celebrates and respects the various differences, neurodiversities, backgrounds and perspectives that makeup the Special Olympics athlete and world population.
DIVERSITY VISION STATEMENT
HOW WE GET THERE: PRINCIPLES FOR ACTION
DIVERSITY
INCLUSION
Our culture fosters a sense of belonging and support throughout the organization and the activities we sponsor. We actively invite individuals to fully and effectively participate in and contribute to critical organizational goals and processes.
EQUITY
The work we do is characterized by fair treatment and open access to resources and opportunities.
ANTI-RACISM
We regularly and intentionally examine our policies, procedures, routines and unconscious bias to uncover the presence of systemic racism and actively dismantle and replace them with systems that promote and support equity for all.
