2018 NYC Disability Pride Parade

Many may not be aware that July is disability awareness month and as a proud physically disabled woman, I had the honor to once again march in the New York City Disability Pride Parade. It was absolutely wonderful to be around so many individuals with different abilities. As usual, the parade kicked off on Madison Square park, and ended at Union Square Park, where many had the chance to meet, network, and learn about the new technologies, organizations, and programs that are available to us.

One organization in particular that had absolutely captured my soul, is the Best Buddies program, founded by Anthony Kennedy Shrivers. Although I have not had the pleasure to meet him, I was able to have met members of the Best Buddies staff and they were awesome! Best Buddies strives to provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities meaningful friendships, successful jobs, and to live as independently as possible. Along with this, teaching public speaking, self-advocacy, communication skills, and to be able to feel valued by their society. I truly believe that it takes a kind heart to work and devote energy and time to another. As a fellow differently-abled individual, I thank you!

This is the 4th year that Born To Stand Out has marched in the NYC Disability Pride Parade. Marching in the parade means so much to me. It means, that I don’t only get the chance to bring awareness towards my disability, which is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), but I also get the opportunity to bring awareness for all disabilities. People with disabilities have come so far. Places and transportation are now more accessible, more individuals with disabilities are attending colleges, and we see more people with disabilities established with careers. I am so proud to be a member of this community and to bring forth awareness to those who are unaware.

I love marching in this parade. I love all of us coming together as one, chanting and embracing our disabilities, but I do feel that there should be more done towards this parade. We need more advertisements, for there was a small crowd and it has been, since the first parade. The news needs to speak more about it, especially a few weeks prior to the day, as they do for other parades. They’re should be targeting people in entertainment. For they would bring crowds of people. As all parades, this is what the NYC Disability Pride Parade needs in order to bring awareness. I want more for our community, and I won’t stop advocating until we get it.

Next year, I’ll try my best to bring more advertisements towards this beautiful Parade, but I cannot do this alone, for I need your help! Let’s keep bringing awareness. We deserve it! Who else would do it, if it's not us?!