In a world faced with novel challenges and at a time when humanity still struggles at times to find commonalities, sport has the innate and profound ability to unite. Wheelchair basketball athletes in particular, know about the importance of resilience and teamwork during difficult and unprecedented times.
As an organization propelled and inspired by our athletes, Wheelchair Basketball Canada (WBC) recognizes that now, more than ever, inclusion is fundamental to our success as an organization and required for the health and prosperity of the entire wheelchair basketball community in Canada. That is why WBC is reaffirming our commitment to our core value of inclusion. WBC will continue to foster a vibrant and welcoming sporting culture where diversity is recognized as a strength and people are embraced for their differences, rather than sidelined because of them.
Over the past 25 years, WBC has witnessed the incredible power of wheelchair basketball to bring people together, have a positive impact, and transform preconceptions about the definition of ability. WBC believes wheelchair basketball can be a catalyst for positive social change as we all strive to build a more inclusive world where everyone can realize their full potential. That change doesn’t happen on its own. We know there is more work to do, and we’re committed to doing that work together.
Our mission is to develop, support and promote wheelchair basketball programs and services for ALL Canadians. That includes people of all abilities – those with disabilities, minimal disabilities, and those who are able-bodied. Our sport is for everyone, irrespective of disability, race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, or family status.
In particular, WBC will continue to champion the full integration and participation of minimal disability and abled-bodied athletes. Their involvement elevates the game and is critical to the growth and success of the sport in Canada. Recognizing that in wheelchair basketball, the chair is the great equalizer and the classification system takes care of the rest; we maintain that it doesn’t matter if you have a disability or not. In Canada everyone can compete together on a level playing field, as athletes and equals.
When Canadian wheelchair basketball leagues and programs return to the hardcourt after this pandemic pause, they will remain entirely open to anyone who wants to participate and compete fairly in an inclusive, safe and welcoming sport environment.