Last night, the Library of Birmingham was illuminated in red as part of Special Olympics International's Global Week of Inclusion, celebrating the power of inclusion and recognising that the city will host the culmination of the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games 2026.
Special Olympics GB is a movement that uses sport to create a world where people with intellectual (learning) disabilities are seen, valued and taken seriously. Its National Summer Games programme began in May and is providing competition opportunities across 15 sports for more than 1,200 children and adults with an intellectual disability.
The programme culminates in Birmingham, where athletes will compete in seven sports at the Alexander Stadium and Wyndley Leisure Centre campuses from 27–30 August.
The Library of Birmingham joined more than 40 landmarks around the world in turning red to mark Special Olympics International's Global Week of Inclusion – an annual celebration of unity, empowerment and respect that champions inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.
Katie Day, a Special Olympics City of Birmingham athlete and former Chair of Special Olympics GB's Athlete Leadership Team, said: “Having been part of Special Olympics GB for 29 years, I'm incredibly proud to see the National Summer Games being staged in my home city and celebrated through activities like this at the Library of Birmingham.
“I've been fortunate to represent my club and my country at events across Great Britain and around the world, but I've always wanted to compete at a major event on home soil.
Birmingham has world-class sporting venues that have hosted some of the biggest events in the world, and I can't wait to welcome my fellow athletes to the city next month for four unforgettable days of sport, friendship and celebration.
Ticket information for the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games will be announced in the coming days. To register your interest and receive the latest updates, please click here.