The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the world’s top competition for athletes with a range of disabilities, truly showcased what the human spirit can achieve. And this year, the out Paralympians (44 from 15 countries) dominated.Those competitors won a combined 28 medals, including a spectacular 12 gold medals. Their collective triumphs send an important message to the world, as they describe ahead.
Jaleen Roberts
Women’s 100m Sprint, Silver
@jaleenroberts
Joe Scarcini
“There are many differences amongst us, but one similarity every human should share is the right to live authentically and love unapologetically. We may not be there yet, but as we all continue to be who we are and fight for equality, we will get to a point where expressing our truest selves is no longer associated with fear.”
Josie Aslakson
Wheelchair Basketball, Silver
@josiealaska
Joe Kusumoto
“I feel very lucky to have a place in both the LGBTQ+ and disability communities. These communities intersect beautifully. Both empower me and so many others to live the life they want to live and not be defined by outdated labels or stereotypes.”
Kaitlyn Eaton
Wheelchair Basketball, Silver
@kaitlyn_eaton21
Getty Images
“One of the coolest things about competing in the Paralympics is the inclusivity of all types of people regardless of race, sexuality, or disability. I think that the Paralympics sets an amazing precedent for how the world should be and I hope that it is something that we continue to strive for.”
Courtney Ryan
Wheelchair Basketball, Silver
@courtneyryan_55
Wheelchair Sports Federation
“At the heart of the Paralympics lies the powerful spirit of inclusion and resilience. As we come together to celebrate incredible athletes from all walks of life, it’s essential to recognize the beauty of being authentically ourselves. LGBTQ+ equality is just another matter of rights; it’s recognizing the strength that diversity brings to our communities and our sports. It sends a message that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves respect, support, and the opportunity to shine.”
Monique Matthews
Sitting Volleyball, Gold
@moniqueusav7
USA Volleyball
“My victory at the Paris Paralympics meant the world to me, it meant my hard work and all my sacrifices from the past three years was worth it. I am so proud of myself and my team for staying together as a team and playing our butts off to achieve our goal of going three straight Paralympics as gold medalist[s].”
Christie Raleigh Crossley
Swimming, Gold (2), Silver (2), Bronze (1)
@crcswimsusa
Mark Reis - USOPC
“Simply put, LGBTQ+ equality saves lives.”
Below, see the first part of an Outsports docuseries, Ballin' Out, which introduces the out players of the USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team.
