IL SR1796

Declares July 2018 as Special Olympics Month in Illinois to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Special Olympics, which was launched in July 1968 with 1,000 intellectually disabled athletes competing at Chicago's Soldier Field.

Recognizes week-long anniversary celebration events in Chicago in July 2018, including the Unified Football Cup (July 17-20), Eternal Flame of Hope Monument dedication (July 20), Law Enforcement Torch Run (July 20), and Global Day of Inclusion Festival and Concert (July 21), with approximately 70,000 expected attendees.

Supports the Illinois Senate's participation in the 50th anniversary celebration and congratulates all Special Olympics athletes, past and present, on their accomplishments.

Acknowledges Special Olympics' evolution from exclusive sports for people with intellectual disabilities to inclusive sports for all, with a focus on advancing the "Choose to Include" message and engaging the next generation in building inclusive communities.