Join us during the whole month of March as we highlight the Spread the Word >> Inclusion campaign and signal to our fellow Wisconsinites that inclusion is the way forward.
This annual partnership between Special Olympics, Best Buddies International and supporters from around the world invites all people to commit to individual acts of inclusion. You can commit to inclusion by signing our pledge HERE.
Connection
Given this past year where we have seen the dramatic effects that isolation and exclusion can have on us on an individual and community level, this year’s focus of Spread the Word >> Inclusion centers on the importance of connection.
A pandemic, physical distancing, powerful reminders of overdue action needed for justice and equity, disruptions to the building blocks of social interaction and more have both energized and exhausted us. Having listened to and reflected on the experiences of the grassroots leaders of the Spread the Word campaign, Special Olympics believes it is more important than ever to build connection through inclusion.
The global campaign highlights divisions that have led to social isolation and exclusion among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) all over the world. The 200 million people with IDD represent every country, belief system, sexual orientation, gender expression, race, and ethnicity.
The Spread the Word >> Inclusion campaign marks an opportunity for all communities to come together, take stock and recognize the advances made – and the advancement still left to do. Last year alone, more than 13,000 people across the world pledged to take action in their communities.
How you can show us inclusion matters to you!
Here in Wisconsin, you can help us strengthen connections and show the power of inclusion in multiple ways:
- Take the Pledge: Make your own commitment to spread inclusion HERE. Help us reach 500 pledges throughout the month!
- Spread the Word: After you’ve taken the pledge, spread the word so others do too. Share about your pledge on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and tag @sowisconsin and @PledgeToInclude. You can even add the Inclusion frame to your Facebook profile throughout the campaign.
- Submit a Video: Tell us how you will Spread the Word >> Inclusion!
- Gear up for Inclusion: Bring the message of inclusion wherever you go with the official 2021 “Inclusion No Matter the Distance” t-shirt
What was formerly known as the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign has been working to spread respect and inclusion since 2009 by addressing the excluding and demeaning impact of the words “retard(ed).” In 2019, the campaign’s new form – Spread the Word >> Inclusion – began building on the success of the first 10 years by challenging everyone to commit to creating socially inclusive spaces for all.
Show your commitment to inclusion in Wisconsin HERE!
