Capturing the Magic of 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
In June, Minneapolis welcomed more than 3,000 athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Joined by 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers, and 75,000 fans, they turned the Twin Cities into a celebration of competition, inclusion, and community — one that Be The People was proud to be part of and share.
From June 20–26, athletes competed in 16 different sports at the University of Minnesota. But beyond every finish line, every medal, and every competition was a story worth sharing. Whether it was a volunteer giving their time, a family member cheering on a loved one, or a fan’s first experience at the Games, everyone had a story to tell. Stories of strength, community, and transformation. This is what Be The People is all about.
One fan described the experience:
"It's forcing me to step outside of my normal way of thinking, stepping into a space where inclusion is first and the athletes are inspiring and I'm opening myself up to being inspired."
Take a look back at the people, stories, and moments that made the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games so meaningful.
Just four years after taking up powerlifting, Em LaPlant celebrates winning three bronze medals at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis. Her story is one of many Be The People captured throughout the week.
"You know we're all different. We all have different abilities. We have all different needs and all that but that doesn't matter. We're all one," she says in the video.
Moments like these are why Be The People exists — to celebrate the people who make communities stronger by showing up for one another.
