Hanna Atkinson SSIGM Blog # 14: Combo Blog on Inclusion

By Hanna Atkinson, Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger- SO Colorado

1. Inclusion means acceptance no matter what gender, race, religion, or age. Everyone has a right to their place in this world. I have a right to my place in this world.

My SSIGM mentor and I speaking about inclusion at SOCO’s YPB Meeting

2. To me, inclusion shows respect and kindness. Connections start forming when we understand where others are coming from and their unique perspective. This comes from sharing thoughts and time with each other.

Hanna testifying at Colorado’s State Capitol to the Finance Committee in support of a license plate bill supporting Special Olympics Colorado.

3. Special Olympics demonstrates these points by welcoming all people and breaking down barriers. They support building connections and encouraging participants to pursue their dreams.

Seven people in total testified and this was the team of athletes, family members, Colorado state representatives and Special Olympics Colorado staff who supported the license plate bill.

Cooking Health with Hanna season 2 included athletes from around the United States. It was an amazing chance to connect on a meaningful level and made us all feel appreciated.

Life can be good when you choose to include and accept others for who they are! Let’s celebrate everyone’s efforts and make a point of getting to know each other so that we can make a positive impact.