In a big gesture in direction of inclusion, the captains of all 16 groups competing in Copa América, held in the USA, will put on the captain’s armband with the message “Select to Embrace.”
Alejandro Domínguez, president of the South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL), has invited the captains to put on this band, symbolizing their dedication to inclusion and variety. Based on the invitation, “by carrying the captain’s armband, you make the choice to imagine huge, to decide on to incorporate, to contribute to a world the place everybody has the chance to play and luxuriate in soccer, to stay full lives and to be valued members of a society.”
Among the many notable gamers who’ve accepted this invitation are Lionel Messi of Argentina (who performs in Miami throughout common season) and Alphonso Davies of Canada, who confirmed their help throughout the event’s opening sport.
“Because of the joint effort with CONMEBOL, folks with disabilities are included in one of many largest sports activities tournaments within the area. There may be nonetheless a protracted strategy to go in problems with inclusion, however this can be a huge step in some of the emblematic sports activities on the earth.”
Claudia Echeverry, President and Regional Director of Particular Olympics Latin America
For Particular Olympics, the message “Select to Embrace” is greater than only a phrase; it’s a name to motion to construct a world the place each individual, no matter their skills, is valued and has the chance to totally take part in society. This message seeks to interrupt down limitations and promote acceptance and respect.
Moreover, throughout a number of Copa América matches, folks with mental disabilities will accompany the gamers to the sector at first of every match as a part of a CONMEBOL initiative.
The inclusion philosophy promoted by Particular Olympics and CONMEBOL since 2005, beneath the “Fútbol Somos Todos” alliance, makes use of soccer as a software to construct extra inclusive and respectful communities. This alliance not solely fosters solidarity and alternative but additionally values folks with mental disabilities for his or her distinctive qualities and skills.
Let’s make inclusion a precedence in our lives. Be a part of us and select to incorporate. Collectively, we are able to construct a extra inclusive and supportive world.