Championing Inclusivity and Advocacy with Paralympian Abby Dunkin
In 2013, amidst the digital passageways of YouTube, Abby Dunkin began an extraordinary journey fueled by the electrifying spectacle of the Team USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team at the 2012 London Paralympics. After witnessing their athleticism, Dunkin was captivated, resulting in a newfound passion for the sport. Hailing from a military family, Dunkin was introduced to wheelchair basketball for the first time at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. Among military personnel adjusting to their new way of life after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, she discovered the San Antonio ParaSport Spurs, an all-military team. Thus, she began a journey leading to her collegiate competition and the illustrious ranks of Team USA.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Abby Dunkin says her Gold medal triumph at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games in one of her proudest moments. Even more so, she cherishes the friendships woven across continents throughout her professional and collegiate levels, embodying the essence of sports companionship.
All of the friendships I’ve been able to create from the sport around the globe, will always mean more than any gold medal.
Abby Dunkin, PLY
Transitioning from athlete to mentor, Dunkin is now a coach with the Rollin’ Hornets in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she dedicates herself to nurturing the next generation of wheelchair basketball talent. Through Abilities Unlimited, a non-profit organization, she empowers youths with disabilities, fostering a sense of belonging and independence through adaptive sports.
“It’s been so great being able to see the growth in our youth athletes and them having the realization that they can compete in athletics at a high level. Not only the kids, but also seeing the parents realize that their child has a place to compete with kids with similar abilities, and learn lessons to be independent.”
Abby Dunkin, PLY
Her impact extends far beyond the court as she continues to champion inclusivity and advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. During the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Abby Dunkin was one of the few openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing in the games. At the time, she shares that she did not fully grasp the significance of her visibility, but she has since embraced her role as an advocate. She aligns with organizations like Athlete Ally, using her platform to champion equality within and beyond the realm of sport. Even after retiring in 2020, Dunkin’s advocacy work for Athlete Ally continues, ensuring that her impact on young athletes resonates far beyond her competitive years. She still participates in recreational competitions as part of their women’s team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, furthering her commitment to inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights.
For Dunkin, the essence of service lies in sharing her story at various sports events – whether on the court, in corporate events, or community gatherings. Through Athlete Ally and local engagements, Dunkin illuminates the power of inclusivity, with a profound desire to amplify the engagement in more events revolving around mental health, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and bringing awareness to adaptive sports, specifically in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her advocacy work is a beacon of empowerment, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities.
Dunkin offers a profound directive to those embarking on the path of advocacy: “Start by finding a local organization that you connect with and truly believe in, and reach out to see what the best way is to get involved.”
Looking ahead, Dunkin envisions a future where every individual, regardless of identity or ability, finds their rightful place in the arenas of sport. Her long-term goals encompass a steadfast commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, mental health advocacy, and the proliferation of adaptive sports—a testament to her dedication to a more inclusive world. After following Abby Dunkin’s journey, her unwavering commitment to advocacy and service inspires change and embodies the transformative power of sport as a breakthrough for social progress.
