On this day in 1921 Eunice Kennedy Shriver was born. Inspired by her disabled older sister Rosemary, Eunice founded the Special Olympics, with the aim of providing athletic opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities. The first event was held in July 1968 in Chicago and the movement soon spread globally. Eunice died in 2009 aged 88, but her influence in changing perceptions of those with intellectual disabilities was profound.
In 2009 Leicester hosted the Special Olympics, and we are fortunate to have a collection of documents, photographs and objects from the event. See the catalogue for more information.
H/T to A Mighty Girl for recognition of the anniversary.
