Blog Entries

Accessibility at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games

Warm Recollections on Accessibility by Sally Swanson, AIA

As I was preparing to embark on my trip to the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, I had
real concerns about how I would navigate through all the logistics in the midst of the COVID-19
pandemic.

As it turns out my concerns were for naught as the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games
organizers demonstrated themselves to be more than capable.

As a member of the media team, not only did I feel that my health and safety was always being
considered, but at the same time I was able to successfully participate and engage the athletes
and members of the support group.

Both the hotel and transportation accommodations were highly organized and dependable.
Knowing that I could rely on these basics, I was then able to focus on telling the story of these
incredible Paralympic athletes.

Having returned from the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games a few months ago, the following
reflects a deeper reflection upon my time in China.

I hope you’ll be able to take a few minutes and turn the pages of my report on the Beijing 2022
Paralympic Winter Games. Not only will you find the very powerful stories of some of these
athletes, you’ll also see some of the infrastructure that speaks to the core values of access and
inclusiveness that have informed my life’s work.

Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games:
Warm Recollections on Accessibility by Sally Swanson, AIA