Parapans Look Beyond Being Inclusive, the Games Aim to Involve

The cultural programme for the 2011 Parapan American Games which get underway this weekend in Guadalajara, Mexico promises to leave a mark beyond inclusion.

With just a few days to go until Sunday’s (12 November) Opening Ceremony at the Telmex Athletics Stadium, the Guadalajara 2011 Organizing Committee (COPAG) has unveiled the cultural programme that will complement the sporting event.

As it was done for the Pan American Games, COPAG has organized non-sports activities to delight not only the locals but also all city visitors during the Games.

Performances will include concert players, a wheelchair ballet, a blind girl’s choir, and an exhibition of para-Charrería (Mexico’s version of American rodeo, adapted). These are just some of the surprises that have been planned as a supplement to the Parapan American Games to be held November 12-20.

“We want to send a message of equality and inclusion,” expressed COPAG Cultural Programme Manager Miguel Angel Wong.

The People’s Theatre at the Parapan American Village and the Founders Square (located behind Degollado Theatre in historic downtown Guadalajara) will be the main stages where these cultural celebrations will take place.

In addition, La Plaza Tapatía will host an exhibition called ‘American Colors, Living Statues’ to showcase different American Continent cultures. Also, the International Ground Art Festival will be installed at the esplanade of the Cabañas Cultural Institute between 11-13 November.

This edition of the Games will be a breakthrough in the history of the Parapan American Games thanks to the planned television coverage, which will be quite similar to what was done for the Pan American Games.

“We are sure that this will be a great event, showcasing the best athletes of the Americas,” asserted COPAG’s Director of Sports and Operations Ivar Sisniega Campbell.

The announcement about this ‘extension’ of America’s Fiesta was made by Parapan American Games President Imelda Guzman de Leo, International Paralympic Committee Chief Executive Officer Xavier Gonzalez, COPAG General Director Carlos Andrade Garin, Parapan American Assistant Director Jorge Bermejo, and Jalisco Radio and Television System General Director Samuel Muñoz.

Everything is now ready for the so-called ‘The Games of Inclusion’ to be officially opened and closed at the Telmex Athletics Stadium.