April 26, 2022 – 6PM EDT
The Metaverse, positioned as a new virtual world free of physical limitations and societal stereotypes, is not yet meeting these ambitions. In fact, 60% of people feel that virtual worlds lack inclusivity, and many are calling for more accessibility.*
Degree® is committed to inspire confidence in everyone to move more. That’s why in partnership with Decentraland, Grammy-nominated recording artist Fat Joe (Joseph Antonio Cartagena), and Paralympic Athlete Blake Leeper, the brand will host the Degree® Metathon™, an initial step toward shaping a more inclusive culture of movement in virtual world.
The Metathon™ will be an inviting experience that introduces the first-ever adaptive wearables in Decentraland, such as a wheelchair and running blades to increase representation in movement.
“Showing people in the virtual world who are running with blades and other prostheses is something that I think will inspire confidence in people with disabilities to get involved and feel welcome to join in on this experience and will ultimately contribute to increased representation,”
8x Paralympic Medalist Blake Leeper.
“As the metaverse continues to evolve, it’s important that the virtual world mirrors the representation in our everyday communities. From different body shapes to cultures to physical abilities, inclusion is key to making people feel welcome. I’m proud to take part in the Degree® Metathon™ and highlight this important message, so everyone feels comfortable and accepted in the metaverse.”
Award-Winning Recording Artist Fat Joe.
Following the Metathon™, Degree® will expand on this initial work and partner with additional experts on disability, race, and gender inclusion to advocate for inclusive changes that allow everyone to see themselves represented as movers in the Metaverse, such as: adding audio description for people with visual impairments, implementing a non-binary experience when creating an avatar, constructing a variety of body shapes and sizes, and more.
Beyond the Metathon™, Degree® exemplifies its purpose through the Breaking Limits Program—a five-year, $5 million commitment to transform lives through the power of movement.
The Program supports youth sports organizations, whose members face the biggest barriers to being active – including barriers due to race, sexual orientation, disabilities, financial limitations, gender, age, socioeconomic status, and more. It provides them with access to coaches and mentors, along with safe spaces to move. The Program brings to life the brand's aim to empower millions of young people to transform their lives through the power of movement by 2030.