Celebrating Disability Pride in Denver: A Day of Art, Dance, and Community
Discover how Denver’s Disability Pride event at the Clifford Still Museum brought together art, dance, service dogs, and community engagement to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the ADA.
WHY DISABILITY PRIDE MATTERS
Disability Pride is more than just an event—it’s a movement that celebrates the diversity, resilience, and contributions of the disability community. As we mark the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Denver’s Disability Pride celebration at the Clifford Still Museum showcased the power of inclusion and the importance of accessible spaces for all.
Highlights from the Clifford Still Museum Event
On a sunny day in Denver, the Clifford Still Museum became a vibrant hub of activity, bringing together people of all abilities to honor Disability Pride. Here’s a closer look at what made the day so special:
- Inclusive Art Activities
Art has always been a powerful medium for self-expression, and the Clifford Still Museum embraced this by hosting interactive art stations. These activities were designed to be accessible to everyone, allowing participants of all abilities to engage creatively.
- Feel the Beat: Accessible Dance for All
One of the day’s most exciting features was the vibrating dance floor brought by Feel the Beat. This innovative platform allows individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to experience music through vibrations, ensuring that everyone can feel the rhythm and join in the fun. The dance floor quickly became a highlight, drawing crowds eager to experience this unique way of connecting with music.
- Service Dogs from Canines of the Rockies
What’s a community event without a few furry friends? Canines of the Rockies joined the celebration, bringing along their well-trained service dogs. These incredible animals not only provided comfort and joy to attendees but also demonstrated how they assist people with disabilities in their daily lives. The dogs were a big hit, especially with the kids!
- Quana Madison’s Vision for Inclusive Events
A special mention goes to Quana Madison, Senior Educator and Community Engagement Specialist at the Clifford Still Museum. Her dedication to disability rights and inclusion was instrumental in making this event a success. Quana’s passion for creating inclusive spaces was evident in every detail, from the art activities to the collaborative partnerships with local organizations.
The Power of Community Collaboration
Events like Disability Pride wouldn’t be possible without the support and collaboration of local organizations. This year’s celebration featured partnerships with:
• Guided by Humanity: Focused on making wellness accessible to all, they shared valuable resources on how to integrate inclusive practices into daily life.
• LIM359: An organization dedicated to supporting individuals with limb loss or limb difference, LIM359 provided crucial information and support to attendees.
• The Center on Colfax: This LGBTQ+ community center is actively working to include disability services in its programming, highlighting the intersectionality of identities and the importance of inclusive advocacy.Reflecting on 34 Years of the ADA
As we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the ADA, it’s essential to reflect on how far we’ve come and the work that still needs to be done. Events like Denver’s Disability Pride are vital in continuing the conversation about accessibility, inclusion, and the rights of people with disabilities. By coming together as a community, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society.
Join the Movement
Disability Pride is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. Whether you’re an ally, a member of the disability community, or simply someone who believes in the importance of inclusion, there’s a role for you to play. Join us in advocating for a more accessible and inclusive world—one event, one conversation, and one step at a time.
Stay connected with StayLooped for more updates on events, resources, and stories from the disability community. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media!
