Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs on Saturday in an early morning parade, joined with the Special Olympics Committee, the athletes, Sr. Basilia clients, members of the Mohican scouts, many members of the Red Cross Youth Chapter, sponsors, volunteers, as well many other supporters and friends of "special persons" in our community, in a parade from the Lekkerbek restaurant on the Pondfill to the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Cay Hill.
This event was organized to celebrate the Eunice Kennedy-Shriver Day which is celebrated in honor of the founder of the Special Olympics.
The Minister, upon the invitation of President of the St. Maarten Special Olympics Committee Angela Richards-Huggins, also took part in the opening ceremonies upon arrival at the complex.
Minister Jacobs congratulated the St. Maarten Olympic Committee for the diligence and hard work in recognizing, encouraging and supporting the special athletes of St. Maarten. She also congratulated the athletes on the many medals they have won at the International Special Olympic Games over the past years.
Minister Jacobs in her speech said, "We are as strong as our weakest link; so it is what we do to strengthen and build up the weakest among us that will determine how strong we are as a community. There is much more that we can do as government to support our people who have special needs. The upgrading of our sports facilities is way overdue and is a priority of this government."
The Minister further stated that as a community we have a lot to learn from persons with special needs, including compassion, tolerance and humbleness.
After a very healthy breakfast, the athletes and many volunteers took part in several activities and games highlighting their abilities. The Minister took part in the speed walk along with several special Olympians and volunteers. It was a wonderful day for all involved.
The Special Olympic Committee can be highly commended for this act of kindness and dedication to the special athletes on St. Maarten.