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Special to The Advocate
On July 15, the Malden Disability Commission, led by Chair Marilyn Andrews, and Commission member Kate Higgins, hosted an event in the City Council Chambers in recognition of Disability Pride Month. The event featured the first ever Disability Pride flag raising on City Hall Plaza as a symbol of solidarity, acceptance and pride.
The first official celebration of Disability Pride Month occurred in July 2015, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The flag was created by Ann Magill and each of the colors represents different types of disabilities: red (physical disabilities); gold (neurodiversity); white (invisible disabilities and disabilities that haven’t yet been diagnosed); blue (emotional and psychiatric disabilities, including mental illness, anxiety and depression); and green (sensory disabilities). The faded black background represents the mourning and rage for victims of ableist violence and abuse.
Marilyn Andrews emceed the event and Kate Higgins spoke about the importance of the day for the community. “The Malden Disability Commission works to help educate and advocate for the education and accessibility of our residents living with a disability or caring for a loved one with a disability,” stated Commission Chair Andrews. “This is an ongoing discussion where there is always new learning as we engage in our community. We proudly raised the Disability Pride flag to continue to work toward inclusion in our community.”
“As a disabled resident of Malden, having the Disability Pride Flag prominently displayed in our community is a powerful symbol that I belong, that all Malden residents with disabilities are welcome and belong here,” said Higgins. “I am grateful to live in a place that values disability as an identity and seeks new ways to promote access and inclusion. I hope the flag will raise awareness about disability as an important aspect of the diversity that makes up our neighborhoods.”
Also, part of the program was a proclamation issued by Mayor Gary Christenson, who also recognized the advocacy and work of the Disability Commission in the community.
