As the Paralympics ended over the weekend, I’ve been reflecting on the response to the competition. 

When scrolling through my LinkedIn I came across a comment that caught my attention - “Very exceptional how these athletes can perform, nothing but respect!”. It was a well-meaning statement about the incredible achievements of athletes competing in the Paris Paralympics. Yet, the more I thought about it, the more I felt it was problematic - reinforcing a narrative that can (unintentionally) marginalize the people it aims to celebrate. 

Paralympic athletes are indeed impressive. Their athletic skill is incredible. And they have navigated a world with systemic barriers that many of us cannot even imagine. This brings us to a critical point. When we describe Paralympic athletes as "exceptional" or "superhuman," we may admire their triumphs, but we inadvertently shift the focus onto the individual—celebrating their ability to overcome barriers rather than questioning why those barriers exist in the first place. This narrative, while celebrating admirable personal accomplishments, fails to fully highlight systemic inequalities and exclusion at play. It fails to acknowledge that the responsibility to create a truly inclusive society lies with all of us. 

This is where the Social Model of Disability brings a valuable perspective. It argues that disability is not a product of an individual’s impairment but rather the result of a society structured in ways that exclude those with different needs. The barriers Paralympians face are not due to their disabilities but to a world designed without considering diverse abilities. We all have a collective responsibility to change that. 

Marian Wright Edelman’s words, "You cannot be what you can’t see," feel particularly relevant in this context. Representation matters, but so does the language and design of the spaces we inhabit. People with disabilities are often portrayed as inspirational for existing in environments that don’t cater to their needs. Instead, we should focus on our collective responsibility to create spaces and systems that provide equal access and inclusion for all. It is not enough to celebrate individual perseverance – we must address the structural issues that prevent true inclusivity. 

As we reflect on the incredible performances at the Paris Paralympics, we must also consider the broader context. These athletes are not here to inspire us by "overcoming" obstacles—they are here to compete, challenge themselves, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in their sport. Their achievements remind us that disability is not a limitation but a natural part of the human experience. It is society’s responsibility to ensure that this experience is equitable for all.