[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 130 (Friday, August 1, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1649-E1650]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS 40TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of 
H. Res. 1279, ``Recognizing the Special Olympics 40th anniversary''. 
First, I would like to thank my distinguished colleague, Lee Terry of 
Nebraska, for introducing this important piece of legislation. This 
resolution will recognize the significance of the Special Olympics in 
establish lasting competitive bonds and teaching the world that all 
people possess the same courage and profound joy in the face of 
athletic competition. Through its 40 years the Special Olympics has 
dedicated itself to empowering individuals with intellectual 
disabilities to become physically fit, productive, and respected 
members of society through sports training and competition. I strongly 
encourage my colleagues to support this act.
  The Special Olympics currently serves over 2,500,000 people with 
intellectual disabilities in more than 200 programs in over 180 
countries. The organization has over 700,000 volunteers and 500,000 
coaches worldwide. Indeed, every four years the Special Olympics 
requires a massive undertaking of athletes, volunteers and coaches. 
Throughout all this the organization has stood true to its oath ``Let 
me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt''. Indeed, 
the bravery of the Special Olympics and its intellectually disabled 
athletes is inspiring, and well worth this commendation.
  This bill recognizes not only the importance of an organization such 
as the Special Olympics, but also its effects. Children and adults with 
intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop 
improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and 
a more positive self-image. These competitors grow not only physically, 
but mentally, and emotionally. In the process new powerful ties are 
made between individuals and between nations regardless of the barriers 
of language and geography.
  This legislation will express the desire of Congress to recognize the 
tireless compassion of those volunteers and coaches working with the 
Special Olympics, as well as the unshakeable bravery of its athletes. 
Through its 40 years of service the Special Olympics has helped 
millions of intellectually disabled children and adults to find their 
true voice.
  Whether it is through their 40 years of international competition, or 
their work regionally, where chapters such as Special Olympics Texas 
work to bring out both athleticism and joy from the intellectually 
disabled in 21 sports, this organization has shown a commitment to 
bringing out the best in both volunteer and competitor alike. To think 
that from a small summer day camp for intellectually challenged 
children and adults could evolve into a

[[Page E1650]]

world-wide organization, is a testament to the lasting vision of Eunice 
Kennedy Shriver, its founder, and the commitment of volunteers, such as 
the 40,000 from Texas, to this dream.

                          ____________________