NYC Gazette

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Disability Unite commenced Disability Pride Month with an event in Brooklyn, New York. The celebration aimed to honor over one million New Yorkers with disabilities. The event featured a disability inclusion training conducted by the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled and a performance by Kimberley Sue, a Sign Language performer.

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso expressed his commitment to inclusivity, stating, "We talk about how New York is a melting pot of people and cultures, but New York is also a mix of people of different mental and physical abilities. This diversity in people of different abilities is part of what makes our city as great as we are, and we should always be creating and fostering inclusivity at every turn for every single person who calls this city home."

Matt Axel, Director of Disability Unite, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “Never before has city government across all five boroughs partnered with the disability community in such a way, to share a message of unity, advocacy and pride.” He acknowledged Reynoso's efforts to welcome individuals with disabilities.

The Disability Inclusion Training provided insights into the culture and needs within the disability community. Attendees learned strategies for fostering inclusive environments when engaging with people with disabilities. ASL interpretation and captioning were available during the session.

Disability Unite will host another event on July 16th at Central Park Bandshell featuring musical performances, art activities, interactive installations, and local community organizations. The initiative aims to amplify the voice of the disability community through various events and collaborations.