On Sunday July 12th, 2015, GiGi’s Playhouse NYC joined other organizations, families, and individuals in the first ever Disability Pride Parade in New York City. The parade celebrated the 25th anniversary of the historic passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which ensures civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities. The inaugural march attracted nearly 3,000 individuals from across the spectrum of the disability community. It was an honor to represent GiGi’s Playhouse and the Down syndrome community while supporting and uplifting the bigger mission of equal rights for all individuals with disabilities.

Starting off in Madison Square Park, the parade was launched by former US Senator and sponsor of the ADA, Tom Harkin, and New York City Mayor, Bill DeBlasio. The procession continued ten blocks where it landed in Union Square Park to music and celebration!

In addition to the success of this walk, Mayor DeBlasio declared July Disability Pride Month. This will be an annual celebration, and we are proud to have been part of its inception.