The date was October 19, 2025. The weather was gorgeous, a perfect day for a walk in the park or walk in the city. The previous day, October 18th was “NO KINGS PROTEST” marches/demonstrations against the Donald Trump administration. Yet many people with disabilities saved their strength for the annual “DISABILITY PRIDE MARCH”. That day the march started on MADISON PARK (Madison Ave and 23rd street) and ended at Union Square Park (at 14th street).
Alan, a YAI participant, said “Wow! It's such a beautiful day!” Jennifer, YAI SELF ADVOCATE PRESIDENT, added “It’s a perfect day for a march!” It surely was! That all people with disabilities, whether in Wheelchairs, with seeing eye dogs, people visually impaired walking arm to arm, walked proudly.
Among the other Disabled organizations present were:
Cuny Coalition for Students with Disabilities, Adapt Community Network, Disabled in Action, and Autistic Adults NYC all shouted with pride “Say it loud I’m disabled and proud!” Others shouted, “Education is a right fight, fight, fight” Several carried banners saying “Wheelchairs have the power! Another banner stated “Disability Rights are Human Rights” ‘Elevators are for everyone!
After the march there were tables of representatives from several disability organizations providing literature, most importantly providing information from Housing Rights, Independent Living, Transportation, where to get legal representation, name it and it was there! Totally prepared, totally well organized. Mother Nature was on the people’s side, No fights, Loving. The only bad news is that we have to wait till next year.