PyeongChang 2018: Paralympic Mural unveiled at Athletes’ Village

“This mural represents how Paralympic sports can break down barriers in societies. Over the coming days, athletes, officials and coaches will leave their personal mark showing the commitment to a world free from barriers and limits for people with disabilities."

The Paralympic Mural was officially unveiled today (8 March) at a ceremony held at the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Village Plaza.

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons, Vice President Duane Kale, PyeongChang 2018 President and CEO Heebom Lee, Korean Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Jonghwan Do and Village Mayor Park Ensoo were in attendance.

The mural stands on the corner of the Village Plaza and represents a wall which turns into a bridge, and shows the support for the principles of the United Nations (UN) Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Inspired by the participants of the Paralympic Winter Games, their achievements, courage and determination, it shows commitment to a new world without barriers and limits to our human abilities, connecting all nations and promoting peace through sports.

Para athletes and Chef de Missions from the different participant delegations have been signing the mural in various languages since the opening of the Village.

“It is an absolute honour to be here at the Paralympic Village to unveil this mural which celebrates the UN Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” said Parsons.

“I would like to especially congratulate PyeongChang 2018 President and CEO Heebom Lee, Korean Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Jonghwan Do and Village Mayor Park Ensoo. Your support is incredible in breaking down barriers and making for a more inclusive society for all.

“This mural represents how Paralympic sports can break down barriers in societies. Over the coming days, athletes, officials and coaches will leave their personal mark showing the commitment to a world free from barriers and limits for people with disabilities.

“As IPC President, I am passionate about sports. But I am even more passionate about sports changing lives and about sports changing the world. At the IPC we aspire to make for a more inclusive society.

“I have been 20 years in this Movement and have witnessed first-hand how the outstanding performances of Para athletes act as catalyst for people changing their views about disability.

“Here in PyeongChang, I am confident that Para sport will break down barriers and have a transformational impact. Disability most certainly does not define the Para athletes, as the focus on their tremendous abilities is far more important.”

Tickets for PyeongChang 2018 can be purchased here.

Every competition as well as the Opening and Closing Ceremonies can be watched live right here on the International Paralympic Committee’s website. Highlights of each day’s action will also be made available.