[UPDATED] Canadian Paralympic Committee statement on Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games

The below statement was released on March 3, 2022:

CPC statement on IPC’s decision on Russia and Belarus

The Canadian Paralympic Committee is pleased to hear the IPC has now done the right thing in banning the Russian and Belarusian teams from competing at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games. We join many organizations around the globe in continuing to condemn the atrocities being undertaken by Russia and Belarus in Ukraine, and stand alongside the Ukrainian team at these Games.

The below statement was released on March 2, 2022:

CPC statement on IPC decision regarding Russia and Belarus at Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games 

The Canadian Paralympic Committee supports the sanctions imposed upon Russia and Belarus today by the International Paralympic Committee for their attacks on Ukraine. We would have liked the two countries expelled immediately, but due to legal constraints this is not possible. Consequently, in accordance with our previous position, the Canadian Paralympic Committee awaits for a special general assembly to be called as soon as possible whereby IPC members will review the membership status of Russia and Belarus within the IPC.   

Our focus now shifts to the upcoming 10 days of the Paralympic Winter Games, March 4-13, where we will support and celebrate our athletes. The Canadian Paralympic Team is ready to compete, and will do so recognizing the great privilege it is to wear the maple leaf and represent Canada on the greatest sporting stage in the world.

The below statement was released on March 1, 2022: 

The Canadian Paralympic Committee joins other sporting organizations around the world, including the International Paralympic Committee, in condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine. We recognize the importance of member nations within the Paralympic Movement stepping up and providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine. 

Our thoughts are with everyone in Ukraine, as well as with the communities of our athletes, coaches, and staff members who may have friends or family affected by these horrific events.

With the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games starting in only a few days, this is of great concern to us. All elements of the Games setting should allow athletes to compete in an equitable environment, and the safety and well-being of our athletes is our utmost priority. 

We believe that Russian and Belarusian athletes should not be allowed to compete at international sporting events, including the Paralympic Winter Games in Beijing. 

The decision of country participation at the Paralympic Games is a matter for the IPC. We understand that due to legal constraints, the IPC is unable to expel Russia and Belarus from the Beijing Paralympic Games, and so we urge the IPC to impose the strongest sanctions that are available. 

We also ask that a special assembly of the IPC members be organized as soon as possible to consider revoking the memberships of Russia and Belarus from the International Paralympic Committee.  

It is our belief that sport has the unique power to bring people together, and this will be on display at the Games. The Canadian Paralympic Team will compete from March 4-13 recognizing and demonstrating the Paralympic values of friendship, respect, equality, and excellence.