Rep. Gabbard Recognizes 50th Anniversary of Special Olympics

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard spoke on the House floor to recognize the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics Hawai‘i on Tuesday.

“Today, I rise to recognize Special Olympics Hawai‘i, celebrating 50 years of service to our community. Since their founding in 1968, they have changed lives and served as an indispensable source of strength and empowerment for so many people,” Rep. Gabbard said.

Special Olympics Hawaiʻi currently serves 4,700 participants with the help of nearly 12,000 coaches and volunteers, offering 10 Olympic-type sports and more than 50 competitions each year, according to Rep. Gabbard.

“They’ve taken on issues like inactivity, injustice, intolerance, and social isolation by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities. They have had an impact on our entire community and our state,” Rep. Gabbard said. “They are combating negative stereotypes, bringing joy and a sense of achievement, and creating a culture of respect and inclusion. Mahalo to Special Olympics Hawai‘i and congratulations on this 50th anniversary.”

A video Rep. Gabbardʻs speech can be found online.