The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Mural was unveiled during a ceremony at the Village Plaza in the Paralympic Village in Tokyo, at which organisers of the Games pledged to help promote a society where there is no discrimination against persons with disabilities.
The ceremony was attended by IPC President Andrew Parsons, Tokyo 2020 President Seiko Hashimoto, Governor of Tokyo Yuriko Koike and Tokyo 2020 Village Mayor Saburo Kawabuchi.
Athletes and others involved in the Paralympic Games will be able to sign the Mural in order to show their support for the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and their support for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
“Following this inauguration this mural will showcase Unity in Diversity. Paralympic athletes of all nations, all genders, all ages, all religions, and all impairments will come together and show their support for how the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games will change society forever. That is why at the IPC we truly believe Change Starts with Sport.” said Parsons.
“The Murals were made using a traditional Japanese construction method called ‘tsugite’, in which different pieces of wood, each with a unique shape, are combined and connected. They aim to serve as a reminder of the importance of recognising “celebrating diversity, connecting people, and bringing harmony”.
The Paralympic Mural will be on display until the day the Paralympic Village closes, and will subsequently be exhibited and stored at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government facilities.