Although society has made great strides, there still are many myths and misconceptions about intellectual disabilities. As a media professional, you are in a unique position to shape public knowledge. We need your help! The guidelines presented here offer suggestions for appropriate descriptions and preferred terminology when reporting about Special Olympics.
Special Olympics is for people with intellectual disabilities. Some Special Olympics athletes also may have physical handicaps, but the criterion for participation is intellectual disabilities. We prefer “people first” language. Therefore, instead of saying “Special Olympics is for mentally and physically handicapped persons” we say “Special Olympics is for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.”
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Photography release statement: No athlete may compete in any Special Olympics Montana (SOMT) event without having a signed release statement on file. The statement grants permission for SOMT and the media to use the athlete’s name, likeness, voice and words in television, radio, films, newspapers, magazines, and other media for the purpose of promoting and publicizing, educating the public, and raising funds.
Tip a Cop is a unique way for Law Enforcement to raise funds in support of the athletes of Special Olympics Montana. COVID-19 has changed the look of this wonderful event for 2020, but MacKenzie River Pizza has found a way to keep the spirit......
30 July, 2020Visit us at and watch LIVE HERE at 11:00 am today July 22nd! Closing Ceremony for the first ever 2020 Virtual State Summer Games....
22 July, 2020Heather Wendell
Marketing & Design Specialist
Office: 406.315.4208
Email: hwendell@somt.org
