The Edison-based Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) will host the fourth annual New Jersey Disability Pride Parade & Celebration in Trenton on Oct. 3.
ACI is a nonprofit that supports independent living for those with disabilities in Middlesex, Union and Somerset counties. The upcoming event aims to promote the belief that disability is a natural part of human diversity.
More than 600 people and organizations representing a broad spectrum of disabilities are expected to march and roll from the State House on West State Street to a celebration event on East Lafayette Street.
The event will feature a variety of entertainers, all of whom have disabilities. Folk musician Johnny Crescendo will be on hand, along with singer and actress Rachel Handler; actress and comedian Maysoon Zayid; and hip-hop dancer Christina Sarni, also known as “C-Bunny.” Exceptional Dance Team, a troupe made up entirely of children with autism, will return for a second year.
Trenton Mayor Eric Jackson will kick off the event with welcoming remarks at the State House. As a tribute to military veterans with disabilities, the Honor Guard from the New Jersey Army National Guard headquarters in Lawrenceville will present the colors of the flag during the playing of the national anthem.
In recognition of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, state Department of Human Services Commissioner Jennifer Velez and representatives from the state Department of Vocational Rehabilitation will speak about those with disabilities, including veterans, as an untapped yet valuable employment resource.
The N.J. Division of Disability Services will distribute free disaster “go-to bags” at its emergency-services pavilion.
The event is run by volunteers and relies on sponsorship, donations and in-kind services. Sponsors include Brownstone Diner & Pancake Factory in Jersey City; SOYJOY; and the state Council on Developmental Disabilities, Easter Seals and the Division on Disability Services.