Tom Harkin: “I have come to the floor, today, to introduce the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act. I am very pleased that Senator Blunt has…”

“I have come to the floor, today, to introduce the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act. I am very pleased that Senator Blunt has joined me in introducing this legislation; he and I are both long-time supporters of the Special Olympics and Best Buddies programs authorized in this legislation. Equally importantly, we are continuing the bipartisan support that this legislation has historically enjoyed. The Special Olympics program is respected around the world as a model and leader in using sport to end the isolation and stigmatization of individuals with intellectual disabilities. For more than 40 years, Special Olympics has encouraged skill development, sharing, courage and confidence through year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Through their programs, Special Olympics has helped to ensure that millions of individuals with intellectual disabilities are assured of equal opportunities for community participation, access to appropriate health care, and inclusive education, and to experience life in a nondiscriminatory manner. Special Olympics gives athletes with intellectual disabilities the tools they need to be included in society, and it gives society the understanding and tools it needs to include them. I can speak first-hand about what a rewarding experience it is for all of us who have been involved in Special Olympics. In 2006, my state of Iowa hosted the first USA National Summer Games.…”