Los Angeles Gears Up for the 2028 Paralympics
The countdown to the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles is well underway, but concerns linger about whether the United States has taken sufficient steps to guarantee a successful event. With just three years to go, stakeholders are evaluating progress on infrastructure, accessibility, and public engagement.
Accessibility Concerns Take Centre Stage
While LA's Olympic preparations have drawn praise, Paralympic-specific adaptations remain under scrutiny. Key questions include:
- Are transportation systems fully accessible for athletes with disabilities?
- Have competition venues incorporated universal design principles?
- Will accommodation meet the diverse needs of Paralympians?
Legacy Planning: More Than Just Infrastructure
Beyond the Games themselves, advocates emphasize the importance of creating lasting benefits for disabled communities. "This is about more than two weeks of competition," notes disability rights activist Maria Gonzalez. "We need to see permanent improvements in accessibility and attitudes."
Funding and Sponsorship Challenges
Compared to Olympic budgets, Paralympic funding often lags behind. Organizers face the dual challenge of securing corporate sponsors while ensuring the Games don't become overshadowed by their Olympic counterpart.
A Watershed Moment for Disability Sports in America
The 2028 Paralympics represent a golden opportunity to transform perceptions of disability sports in the US. With proper execution, LA could set new standards for inclusivity while delivering a spectacular global event.
