Global Week of Inclusion 2026
From July 20 to 26, 2026, celebrate the difference we can make when we #ChooseToInclude!
Too many Special Olympics athletes are far too familiar with the pain of isolation and exclusion. Canadians with intellectual disabilities are still too often left out – on playgrounds, from the workforce, from conversations.
Together, we have the power to change the future for all.
Inclusion doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people, organizations, and communities choose to respect and include people with intellectual disabilities, leading the way to a better world.
When we choose to include, we open doors. We break down barriers. We show the next generation of Canadians of all abilities that this country stands behind them.
This week—and every week—we invite you to stand with Special Olympics athletes and be part of creating a more inclusive tomorrow.
Because we can create a better tomorrow when we #ChooseToInclude today.
Share That You #ChooseToInclude
Download a #ChooseToInclude sign and snap a photo holding it—or get creative and make your own!
Share your photo on social media with @SpecialOCanada and #ChooseToInclude, then encourage your family, friends, colleagues, classmates, and teammates to do the same.
Change the world for tomorrow. #ChooseToInclude today!
Champions of Inclusion: Athletes and Leaders Changing the Game
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Rebecca Birss Took on the World. Now She’s Back with Team Manitoba at the Special Olympics Canada National GamesRebecca says that being part of Special Olympics gave her more than the chance to compete—it helped her build lasting friendships with fellow athletes from across the country and experience the power of inclusion through sport. -
Celebrate Two Female Leaders at Special Olympics CanadaSusan Wang and Gail Hamamoto remind us that inclusion means ensuring everyone has the opportunity to lead, contribute, and be heard. Through their leadership and advocacy, they are helping build a world where people of all abilities can belong, thrive, and reach their full potential. -
Growing, Belonging, and Thriving with Special Olympics Nova Scotia"Watching Evan grow through Special Olympics has been life-changing for our family," says his mom. "The friendships, support, and sense of belonging we've found through teammates, volunteers, and leaders are something we'll carry with us forever. We believe everyone should experience the power of inclusion by getting involved."
To celebrate the Global Week of Inclusion, MNP, proud partner of Special Olympics Canada, is calling on Canadians to rally behind Special Olympics Canada athletes.
From July 20 to 26, MNP will match every donation up to $10,000, doubling the impact for athletes on their Road to the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat, Alberta.
Starting in 2025, MNP became an official National Partner of Special Olympics Canada, strengthening its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and expanding its impact in communities across the country.
Together, we are proud to help strengthen communities through the power of inclusive sport.
Nominate a Champion of Inclusion in Your Community
Who inspires you?
Do you know an athlete, coach, volunteer, or community leader who’s helping create a more inclusive Canada? Someone breaking barriers, shifting perspectives, and making sure no one is left on the sidelines?
We want to hear their story.