The thousands of Los Angeles Special Education Assistants of SEIU Local 99 celebrate with the whole city as we host the Special Olympics World Games. Every day, Special Education Assistants ride the bus with students, provide one-on-one and group tutoring, and help foster inclusion and understanding in our schools.
I’ve finally fulfilled my dream of volunteering for the Special Olympics World Games.
By Yvette Stewart-King, Politi Elementary Special Education Assistant
I remember watching Eunice Shriver on my grandma’s black and white television in 1968 announcing the first International Special Olympics Games in Chicago. I had cousins who had special needs, so I remember thinking “Everyone can participate? That’s great!” I’ve dreamed of helping ever since. In fact, my Special Olympics username is Bucket_List.
I attended the Opening Ceremony last Saturday and then worked in registration for Sunday’s Triathlon—the first Special Olympics World Games Triathlon ever held. Echoing the Special Olympics cry for inclusion anyone was welcome to participate in this amazing event with the World Games athletes as a Unified participant.
It was so exciting. I’m a calm, quiet person; but, I discovered I have an inner cheerleader! When registration was completed, I was asked to help direct the cyclists on the racetrack. This was the second portion of their event and they needed to complete two laps. We had to devise a way to communicate to everyone from all corners of the world. We decided holding up two fingers after their second lap was the best international signal. My hands were sore after 45 minutes! But I was so happy to be there.
My next event is the half marathon. I feel so honored to be a part of helping these events run smoothly. And in between, I plan to attend as many of the other events as possible. Aquatics, equestrian—you name it! These athletes are amazing in their athletic abilities and inspiring in their openness and acceptance.
