Led by Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D – Oakley), the California State Assembly passed ACR-210 in April to honor Special Olympics Day and promote inclusion and respect among people of all abilities.
“With ACR-210, we recognize the tremendous impact that Special Olympics has on communities around California to inspire all people to fulfill their greatest potential,” said Frazier.
The resolution, which was co-authored by 67 members, was the culmination of a busy week for Special Olympics at the State Capitol Building. Athletes and staff from Special Olympics Northern California (SONC) and Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) converged in Sacramento to meet with senate and assembly representatives and advocate for state funding in 2019. Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D – Paramount) also held a joint meeting with SONC and SOSC athletes and staff, along with Frazier.
SONC Athlete Ambassadors included Stephanie, Lindsay, Jonathon, Rudy, Loretta, Katina, Mark and Amber. The athletes were able to share their personal Special Olympics story with each respective senator/assemblymember and showcase firsthand the impact that the organization has on their lives.
SONC offers year-round sports competitions and health resources to more than 22,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities across the region. In addition, SONC impacts more than 100,000 students in nearly 500 schools through the Unified Champion Schools Program – bringing together students in general and special education in the spirit of inclusion. SONC and SOSC programs are all provided 100 percent free to the athletes and their families and therefore rely on funding from individuals, corporations and government support.
Frazier, who drafted ACR-210, is a longtime supporter of Special Olympics and was honored as SONC’s Volunteer of the Year in 2016. He has also volunteered at SONC Summer Games, held annually at University of California, Davis, for the past 13 years.