For nearly five decades, a group of Newton parents and educators has worked to make the city's classrooms more inclusive for students with disabilities. On Sunday, July 19, that effort moves from the schools into the public square with Newton's first Disability Pride Month celebration at the Cooper Center for Active Living, 345 Walnut St. in Newtonville, according to a NewTV announcement.
The all-ages event runs from 2 to 4 p.m., and attendees can drop in anytime.
Three local organizations are behind the effort: the Newton Commission on Disability, the Newton Free Library, and Understanding Our Differences, the Newtonville-based nonprofit founded in 1978 by Newton parents whose children with disabilities were among the first to be included in general education classrooms. UOD has since brought its hands-on disability awareness curriculum to thousands of Newton elementary students in grades 3 through 5, using guest speakers with disabilities and participatory activities.
Beth Tishler and Mary Margaret Pappas, two longtime UOD advocates, wrote in a 2023 letter to Fig City News that "UOD's presence has made Newton a more respectful and accepting community."
The July 19 celebration extends that mission beyond the classroom. Artist Bill Porter will lead a community quilt project throughout the afternoon, inviting everyone to contribute a piece to a Disability Pride quilt. At 2:30 p.m., organizers will deliver welcoming remarks followed by a performance from local jazz musicians. At 3:30 p.m., more music accompanies the installation of the finished quilt.
The event also includes games and activities, community resource tables, refreshments, and a sensory-friendly room designed so residents of all sensory needs can participate comfortably.
Volunteers needed
The Commission on Disability is recruiting volunteers for the event at its next meeting on Monday, July 13, at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The posted agenda also lists parking fines, the city's ADA coordinator role, and a housing subcommittee report.
Residents interested in helping with the July 19 celebration can join the Zoom meeting to learn more.
A first for Newton
Carol Beard started Understanding Our Differences in 1978, and the program has operated continuously in Newton for nearly five decades, according to the organization's website. The July 19 event marks the first time Newton has organized a citywide Disability Pride Month celebration, connecting the work those parents began in classrooms to a public gathering open to all neighbors.
Upcoming community dates
- Monday, July 13, 6 p.m. — Commission on Disability meeting (Zoom)
- Sunday, July 19, 2–4 p.m. — Disability Pride Celebration, Cooper Center for Active Living, 345 Walnut St., Newtonville
