Music video highlight of Special Olympics conference
In 1969, "One" was the loneliest number you'd ever know, at least according to Three Dog Night. Wednesday, it took on a whole new meaning, musically speaking.
"One" is the name of a new music video shot Wednesday in Arlington Heights by officials with Jaffe Films in Lisle during a youth leadership forum sponsored by Special Olympics Illinois.
Teens from 10 suburban high schools gathered at Hersey High School for a conference aimed at energizing them to become advocates for the disabled.
Their testimonials and interaction during the sessions all figure to make the video, which will be shared with schools throughout the state and perhaps the country, officials said.
"We want to fire up the teens, and make them the generation to change the 'R' word to 'respect,' " said Joy Pierson-Nebergall, a Special Olympics coach at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville.
At the start of the conference, students drew their handprints on a banner and inscribed their pledge before hearing firsthand testimonials about the use of the word "retard" and its hurtful consequences.
James Williams, of Lake in the Hills, described how he had been called such names and bullied in high school. However, his involvement with Special Olympics gave him a renewed sense of purpose and confidence.
"Because of Special Olympics, I do not get bullied any longer," said Williams, who now serves as a Global Messenger for the organization, delivering inspiring speeches. "The only names I am called are 'Captain' and 'Mr. Incredible.'"
His compelling account drew cheers from the teens.
Students from Hersey, Palatine and Neuqua Valley formed a panel to share their ideas for successful inclusion activities.
Rachel Pierson filmed a short video on the hurtful use of the 'R' word for the Neuqua Valley "Wildcat Weekly" newscast, while Megan O'Halloran talked about the successful Buddy Program at Hersey.
"What you don't realize is how much you have in common," O'Halloran said.
The interactive event also drew another important constituency: representatives from the Special Olympics headquarters in Washington.
"They're looking at this forum as a pilot program," said Barbara DiGuido of Special Olympics Illinois, "that hopefully we can model for other parts of the state and across the country."
Funding came from a grant from the U.S. Department of Education for Special Olympics projects that bring together students with and without disabilities.