What is it about?
The Paralympic Games have become a relevant social and communication tool for the enhancement of global awareness and understanding of disability. The increasing visibility of this kind of global sports event, as well as the efforts of public authorities to make their host cities more accessible, evidence a relevant shift to new urban barrier‐free experiences and discourses concerning disability. This research is guided by an exploratory case study approach to assess the disability representation and narratives within the context of the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. The examination of some innovative communication strategies fostering the visibility of disability reveals a series of effective practices implemented in Japan. The focus on the personification of para‐athletes, the celebration of public events to experience first‐hand para‐sports disciplines, as well as the engagement of school children and young people in para‐sports initiatives are predominant in the communication efforts of Tokyo 2020 in the pre‐games period.
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Why is it important?
The article addresses the representation of disability in sports, analyzing how narratives in communication influence public perception of athletes with disabilities. Focusing on the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, it highlights best practices in media coverage and their contribution to greater visibility and acceptance of these athletes in society. Additionally, it examines the implications of these narratives for the future of sports journalism and social inclusion, proposing a shift in how media represents this group by showcasing positive examples that challenge stereotypes and promote an empowered image. In summary, the article provides a critical analysis of the impact of narratives in sports communication and suggests practices that can enhance the representation and visibility of Paralympic athletes.
Perspectives
My perspective focuses on spreading the importance of narratives surrounding disability in sports, especially in the context of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, considering that these narratives not only affect public perception of athletes with disabilities but can also influence their inclusion and representation in the media. Through analyzing best practices in media coverage of these games, I aim to highlight how effective communication can challenge stereotypes and promote a more positive and empowered image of Paralympic athletes. In summary, I advocate for a change in how stories related to disability are communicated, emphasizing their potential to transform attitudes and foster a more inclusive culture.
María Luisa García Guardia
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Disability Narratives in Sports Communication: Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games’ Best Practices and Implications, Media and Communication, August 2021, Cogitatio,
DOI: 10.17645/mac.v9i3.4043.
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