Fitchburg Raises Disability Pride Flag for ADA Anniversary
URGENT UPDATE: The Disability Pride Flag is now proudly flying over Fitchburg City Hall as of July 22, 2023, marking the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Mayor Sam Squailia and local officials raised the flag in a ceremony that underscores the importance of accessibility and civil rights for individuals with disabilities.
This significant event honors the historic legislation, signed into law on July 26, 1990, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to employment, education, transportation, and public spaces. Squailia shared photos of the flag-raising on social media, emphasizing the flag’s representation of the diverse disability community.
The Disability Pride Flag, designed by Ann Magill, features vibrant colors reflecting various aspects of disability: red for physical disabilities, gold for neurodiversity, white for invisible disabilities, blue for emotional and psychiatric disabilities, green for sensory disabilities, and a faded black background honoring victims of violence.
“This flag represents resilience, pride, and unity,” Squailia stated. “Fitchburg is proud to stand with the disability community, this week and every week, as we continue working toward a city that is accessible and inclusive for all.”
Adding to the community spirit, flags from numerous countries, including Brazil, Canada, Finland, Germany, Israel, and Puerto Rico, are also displayed at Heritage Park, further showcasing Fitchburg’s global connections.
Local resident Cristy Lee Potter Guy, who became legally blind in 1987, shared her journey on social media, reflecting on her experiences before and after the ADA’s implementation. “Becoming legally blind in Fitchburg in 1987 before the ADA and then experiencing high school and college in Fitchburg after the ADA was passed was an experience in recognition, progress, and acceptance,” she wrote. “But as you see the comments below, there’s still work to be done.”
The flags at Heritage Park were installed last month and will typically fly until November or December, symbolizing Fitchburg’s commitment to inclusivity. Squailia noted that this display represents “our community connection to the world,” with flags from the city’s four sister countries also part of the vibrant display.
As the flag flies high this week, Fitchburg residents are reminded of the ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and inclusivity for all. The community is called to participate in this celebration of diversity and resilience.
Stay tuned for more developments as Fitchburg continues to advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities.
