Today marks a significant milestone for inclusion in Tulsa, as the University of Tulsa hosts the esteemed Best Buddies Friendship Walk. This vibrant event draws participants from all walks of life, united in their support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Best Buddies International, a revered nonprofit organization, has long championed the rights and inclusion of people with IDD. By fostering one-to-one friendships, securing integrated employment, and promoting leadership development, Best Buddies plays a crucial role in making society more inclusive and supportive.
The Friendship Walk is Best Buddies’ premier event, celebrated globally with over 70 walks and 50,000 participants. This initiative is more than just a walk; it’s a powerful movement toward ending the social, physical, and economic isolation faced by 200 million people with IDD worldwide. I had the opportunity to photograph the walk today, and capture the memories for the friends and families there.
At the University of Tulsa, today’s walk is not only about raising awareness but also about celebrating the vibrant spirit of camaraderie and support within the community. Participants include individuals with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and other undiagnosed disabilities, along with their friends, families, and supporters.
Each step taken at the walk symbolizes a step toward a more inclusive world where people with IDD can thrive in friendships, workplaces, and communities. It’s about forming meaningful connections that transcend differences, highlighting the unique contributions of individuals with IDD.
As Tulsa comes together for this heartwarming event, it reinforces the city’s commitment to creating a society that values diversity and inclusion. The Best Buddies Walk at the University of Tulsa is more than just an event; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community support in making significant strides for inclusion.
See the full gallery here: https://kennethbaucum.client-gallery.com/gallery/best-buddies-walk-2024-tulsa-oklahoma
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