LA28: Building a "Games For All" with Accessibility at Its Heart

Geoff Cook

LA28: Building a "Games For All" with Accessibility at Its Heart

Los Angeles is making a significant pledge for the upcoming LA28 Paralympic Games: a "Games For All." Just ahead of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), city leaders, alongside the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and LA28 officials, publicly reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring these Games are inclusive for everyone.

This isn't just a promise; the City of Los Angeles is taking concrete steps. They've signed an official Games Host City Accessibility Commitment, are developing a comprehensive Games Accessibility Plan, and have even appointed the City's first-ever Accessibility Chief within the Mayor's Office. Imagine that: a dedicated leader ensuring accessibility is built into every aspect of the planning process. The goal is for all Games-related programs, facilities, and information to be equally accessible.

Mayor Karen Bass noted that while the ADA has brought progress over the past 35 years, there is still work to be done to ensure all Angelenos can thrive. Councilmember Imelda Padilla, who experienced mobility challenges as a child, spoke passionately about the vital importance of accessibility for function, dignity, and inclusion. This comprehensive approach, which includes efforts such as Braille translations at City Hall, aims to make LA28 the most accessible Games ever.

Colleen Wrenn of the IPC believes that LA's commitment offers an incredible chance to advance the promise of the ADA, driving positive change beyond just sports venues. LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover also highlighted how hosting the Paralympics presents an opportunity to truly reshape our perspective on individuals with disabilities, especially as LA28 plans to host the largest Paralympic Games in history. Scott Blanks of the Braille Institute, a Paralympian himself, stressed that often the biggest barriers are attitudinal, seeing the Games as a powerful reminder of human potential.

The City's commitment builds on decades of advocacy, with leaders viewing LA28 as a chance to expand equity and make inclusion the standard dramatically. The LA28 Paralympic Games will take place from August 15 to 27, 2028.

You can read more about Los Angeles's commitment to accessibility for the LA28 Games here: LA28 Host City Accessibility Commitment.

What kind of lasting legacy do you hope the LA28 Paralympic Games will create for accessibility and inclusion in Los Angeles and beyond?