NEWS Fall 2019 Vol. 68 Issue 1
www.ahrc.org
AHRC Nassau Holds Banner High at Disability Pride Parade in NYC With banners and heads held high, more than 40 people from AHRC Nassau’s Residential Self-Advocacy Council marched in this year’s Disability Pride Parade on Sunday, July 14, in New York City, hosted by Disability Pride NYC, Inc. Joining thousands of disability advocates from across the metro area, advocates followed the route from Madison Square Park to Union Square West, rallying for disability pride, alongside agencies, including New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc., AHRC New York City and the New York City Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities. At a time when people with disabilities remain under-represented, disability pride is an important call to action. Self-advocates from AHRC Nassau chose to participate in the parade, and assist in the parade’s objective of creating greater inclusion, awareness and visibility – for people with disabilities as unique individuals and as part of a larger disability community. Self-advocate Carolyn Williams said she wanted to join the parade to be a part of a greater community who share her experience of having a disability. Her sentiment was echoed by self-advocate Catherine Fox, who proudly observed, “Everyone in the parade was like me!”
“Remember, the only disability in life is a bad attitude!” – Corinne Kennedy
Hampton Court House Manager
Read more about how Corinne stays inspired on page 11.
Standing side by side fellow disability advocates was important, but equally important was the joyful recognition from parade-goers. Self-advocate Alex Aynat “felt special going to the parade.” He said, “I didn’t know so many people cared about us.” Self-advocate Maryanne Adreance recalled, “I liked seeing all the people along the way cheering us on.” This empowering opportunity for self-advocates was the result of significant planning and facilitation by AHRC Nassau Residential Managers Peggy Cruz and Corinne Kennedy, who drew on a combined 30 years of experience to prepare transportation, support staff and other important logistics so that self-advocates could focus on the unique experience of being a part of disability pride. (cont. on page 3)
Mission: AHRC Nassau empowers people to live fulfilling lives. Together with Family – Friends – Community
Vision: Maximizing potential throughout a lifetime
Value Statements: We believe that… • All people must be treated with dignity and respect • Partnering with people and families creates the best opportunities • A competent and compassionate workforce is integral to providing quality supports • We are committed to diversity and cultural sensitivity • Innovative approaches are essential for advancement and growth • Financial sustainability is necessary for organizational success