Disability Pride 2019

Thanks to everyone who came to Disability Pride 2019! The event was a huge success with hundreds of people filling the streets of Calgary to celebrate people with disabilities.

The event began with a warm welcome from disability advocate Kiran Dhaliwal and a blessing from Elder Kelly Good Eagle, Senior. The excitement was palpable as the parade made its way down Stephen Avenue. At each intersection the parade was greeted by Disability Pride volunteers and members of the Calgary Police Service, Fire Department and EMS.

Colourful banners and posters were on display with inspiring messages such as:

 “I am powerful”

 “You don’t need sight to have a vision”

 “What makes you different is what makes you beautiful”

“Autism Awareness”

“Inclusion starts with you”

“Proud to be disabled”

“Sassy and proud”

 “Dislabeled”

 “I am differently able”

Violinist Aleksandra Danicic welcomed parade participants to Olympic Plaza with a lively set of fiddle tunes, and our emcee Ken Lima-Coelho welcomed community innovators, and political leaders to the stage to share words of inspiration.

Ken then introduced Heather Blush and the Uppercuts, a local roots act who performed a toe-tapping set of jazz and blues inspired music.

Jay Ross and Prophesied delivered their powerful brand of hip-hop with an inspiring message and lots of energy, followed by the STAR Division of the Youth Singers of Calgary who gave a fun and heartwarming performance.

After a few words from event organizers, Heather Blush and the Uppercuts finished off the afternoon with a second set that had people singing, dancing, moving and grooving.

Thanks to everyone who made Disability Pride 2019 a memorable community experience!

Your participation shows the world that our community is strong, loud and proud.

THANK YOU!!!