Come and march with us in solidarity of Disability Pride! We welcome all friends, family, and partner organizations in the Disability Community to join! Together we will make history!

Event Date: Saturday, July 24, 2010

Event Timeline: The Parade: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Festival will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Note: At 9:30 a.m. the city will be closing N. First Street along the parade route from Brokaw to Trimble and on Trimble from N. First Street to Zanker Road in preparation for the parade. Police will be re-directing traffic, but please try to arrive before that time if you arriving by car.)

Parade Details: Individuals and Contingents will need to check-in at line-up at Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, 2625 Zanker Road, San Jose, 95134 at 9 a.m. We will march the 1 mile on N. First St., which will be closed to traffic. The parade route concludes at SVILC, 2202 N. First St.

Festival Details: The festival will begin with a few words from our Grand Marshal on our Main Stage. Throughout the afternoon there will be entertainment, art activities, fun for kids, and an opportunity to tour our new Center since relocating last March.

Cost to Attend: None

Pre-order Pride T-shirts: Commemorative T-Shirts will be available for sale for $15. (sizes: kids S, M, L and adult S-4XL) Reserve your t-shirt when you register online, or call or email our office to let us know you want one.

Pre-order Lunch: Your delicious box lunch includes a hearty 1/2 sandwich in your choice of vegetarian, roast beef, ham or turkey. Lunch also includes an apple, chocolate chip cookie and 1 bottled water. Cost is $6. Researve your lunch when you register online, or call or email our office to let us know what kind you want.

Transportation and Parking: Parking will be available at both Catholic Charities and SVILC locations. Outreach will be running a shuttle on the half hour from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for parade participants who stay for the festival, back to Catholic Charities.

To get directions to either Catholic Charities (2625 Zanker Road) or SVILC (2202 N. First St.) from your location, use the Google Map directions widget below:

The closest light rail stop for both SVILC and Catholic Charities, use the VTA Karina Light Rail Stop. Click here for the VTA website for more informaiton about station locations and schedules.

Grand Marshal
Zona Roberts, Mother of Ed Roberts, Founder of the Independent Living Movement.

We are extremely honored to announce that Zona Roberts will serve as the official Grand Marshal for the parade. Ms. Roberts is a devoted disability rights activist, ally, and revolutionary whose many years of political involvement in the disability community encompass the major landmarks of the movement. She is a vibrant ninety-year-old woman and the mother of Ed Roberts, who many consider to be the Father of the Independent Living Movement and equivalent in stature to Martin Luther King, Jr. by many in the disability rights movement.

Vendor Table Information

If your group or organization would like to reach out to the local disability community and participate in the First Annual West Coast Disability Pride Parade and Festival, we invite you to reserve a table. The $100 fee includes 1 six-foot table and two chairs as well as your company or organization's name listed in the event program and event advertising. For more information email Kathy Romero at kathyr@svilc.org or call 408.894.9041 or TTY: 866.945.2205 or video phone: 408.457.8359 or event coordinator Kaycee McKenzie at 408.778.0488.

Become a sponsor!

Become a part of history by sponsoring SVILC's First Annual West Coast Disability Pride Parade and Festival on July 24, 2010 in San Jose, CA. This event is inspired from the successful Disability Pride Parade (click here to watch a video) that is held every year in Downtown Chicago, now in its seventh year. SVILC is proud to begin this tradition of disability community pride in the Bay Area.

Click here to read more about the detailed benefits offerings of our Sponsorship Opportunities. For more information contact Kathy Romero at kathyr@svilc.org or call 408.894.9041 Ext. 216 or TTY: 866.945.2205 or video phone 408.457.8359.

Volunteer Opportunities

If you would like to be a part of the team that is making history hosting the First Annual West Coast Disability Pride Parade and Festival, there are ways that you can participate! We would welcome help the day of with tasks such as set-up, greeters, arts activities and clean up. For more information on how you can get involved, please contact Kathy Romero at kathyr@svilc.org or call 408.894.9041 or TTY: 866.945.2205 or video phone: 408.457.8359.

Why Disability Pride

The overall mission of the Disability Pride Parade is:

To change the way people think about and define "disability"
To break down and end the internalized shame among people with Disabilities; and
To promote the belief in society that Disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity in which people living with Disabilities can take pride.

The specific objectives for the parade are:

To organize a fully inclusive, annual event that will celebrate and strengthen the pride, power, and unity of people with disabilities, our families, and allies;
To generate national visibility of the Disability community.

At the request of Sage Publications, Sarah Triano wrote the following definition of "Disability Pride" for the Encyclopedia of Disability:

"Disability Pride represents a rejection of the notion that our physical, sensory, mental, and cognitive differences from the non-disabled standard are wrong or bad in any way, and is a statement of our self-acceptance, dignity and pride. It is a public expression of our belief that our disabilities are a natural part of human diversity, a celebration of our heritage and culture, and a validation of our experience. Disability Pride is an integral part of movement building, and a direct challenge to systemic ableism and stigmatizing definitions of disability. It is a militant act of self-definition, a purposive valuing of that which is socially devalued, and an attempt to untangle ourselves from the complex matrix of negative beliefs, attitudes, and feelings that grow from the dominant group's assumption that there is something inherently wrong with our disabilities and identity.'

"Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once wrote, "One must not overlook the positive value in calling the Negro to a new sense of manhood, to a deep feeling of racial pride and to an audacious appreciation of his heritage. The Negro must be grasped by a new realization of his dignity and worth. He must stand up amid a system that still oppresses him and develop an unassailable and majestic sense of his own value. He must no longer be ashamed of being black."
Although there are many barriers facing people with disabilities today, one of the single greatest obstacles we face as a community is our own sense of inferiority, internalized oppression and shame. The sense of shame associated with having a disability has, indeed, reached epidemic proportions. Disability rights movements in different countries have made many gains in the area of civil rights over the past decade, but what good is an Americans with Disabilities Act or a Disability Discrimination Act if people will not exercise their rights under these laws because they are too ashamed to identify as being disabled? "As long as the mind is enslaved," King wrote, "the body can never be free." As long as people with disabilities remain ashamed of who we are, we will never realize the true equality and freedom we so desire. We must first take pride in ourselves as a community. We must no longer be ashamed of being disabled.

"Dismantling centuries of internalized oppression, however, and promoting a widespread sense of Disability pride is easier said than done. Unlike other civil rights movements, people with disabilities do not always have the benefit of a generational transfer of disability history and pride through the family structure. There are no "disability churches" per se, neighborhood enclaves, or other communal institutions where people with disabilities can come together by choice and consistently receive positive messages that counteract the depredation wrought by the onslaught of cultural terrorism. There is a tremendous need to create a counterculture that teaches new values and beliefs, and acknowledges the dignity and worth of all human beings. Disability pride is a direct response to this need."
Sarah Triano, National Disabled Students Union

"Today marks the beginning of our efforts to develop a whole community of people with disabilities and allies who are proud to be who we are, who do not see ourselves as victims, who expect more from ourselves and those within our community, and who are committed to building an inclusive community that recognizes the dignity, humanity, and worth of all people. We must put our efforts into transforming the hearts, minds, and souls of our people, for that is where our true power lies. As the great leader of our movement, Ed Roberts, once said, "My ability to regain the pride in myself as a person with a disability is one of the most important things that's coming out of what's happening here today." Whether or not Ed Roberts and his comrades successfully won regulations for Section 504, they left that important fight in our history with a new sense of pride in who they were - and that is their legacy and our heritage. A heritage which I cherish and celebrate fully. I am Disabled and Proud!"
- Sarah Triano

FAQ's

PARADE (scroll down for information about the Festival)

What is the date and time of the SVILC's First Annual West Coast Disability Pride Parade?
Saturday, July 24, 2010. Parade registration and line-up begins at 9 a.m. Parade steps off promptly at 10 a.m. Festival at SVILC begins at 11 a.m. Come participate and march with us! (Note: At 9:30 a.m. the city will be closing N. First Street along the parade route in preparation for the parade. Please plan to arrive before that time if you arriving by car.)

Where is the Parade line-up and what is the route?
Parade line-up is at Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, 2625 Zanker Road, San Jose. We will march/roll/ride the 1 mile south to SVILC in the northbound lane of North First Street, which will be closed to traffic during the parade.

Can I participate as an individual in the Parade?
Yes. Anyone who registers individually (not part of an organization) will be able to march/roll/ride as an Independent Advocate.

Do I have to register if I want to participate in the Parade?
Yes. This can be done as a pre-registration process online by clicking here, or onsite at parade line-up the morning of the parade. All participating contingents must be registered. Each individual within the contingents do not have to register, although we would like to have their contact information if available.

How do I register to be a participant in the Parade?
To Register Online: http://svilcdisabilityprideparade.eventbrite.com
To Register By Phone: Call us at 408.894.9041 (866.945.2205 TTY)
To Register By Video phone: 408-457-8359

How much does it cost to participate in the Parade?
There is no registration fee.  However, if people are able, we do suggest a registration donation of $10 for individuals; $25 for not-for-profit organizations; and $50 for for-profit organizations.

Can I come to the Festival if I can't come to the Parade? Can I come to the Parade even if I can't stay for the Festival?
Yes, absolutely. We would love to see you at both events, but attendance isn't required for one to attend the other. Come as you can and enjoy!

Do I have to be a person with a disability to participate in the Parade?
Absolutely not. The Disability Pride Parade is an opportunity for us to celebrate and strengthen the pride, power, and unity of people with disabilities, our families, and allies. Everyone who believes that disability is a natural part of human diversity and supports Disability Pride is invited to be a part of the Parade.

Will reasonable accommodations be provided?
Yes. But you must let us know your needs in advance. We can supply material in large print and Braille and will have ASL interpreters and a few Personal Assistants at the Parade. When you register, please indicate what type of accommodation you will need.

Are service animals allowed in the Parade?
Yes, as long as it is a certified service animal. No pets are allowed.

Who should I contact if I have other questions about registration?
You can email Jody Yarborough at jodyy@svilc.org or call us at 408.894.9041 (866.945.2205 TTY) (408.457.8359 video phone).

How long is the Parade Route?
1 mile.

Where should we park on the day of the Parade?
There is ample free parking at Catholic Charities, if you are participating in the parade. Following the parade, we have a shuttle to return you to Catholic Charities, from the SVILC offices, leaving every half-hour from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are coming to the Festival only, there is ample parking around the SVILC offices.

Will there be public restrooms available at Catholic Charities, the Parade start location?
Yes. Catholic Charities is kindly opening their office restrooms for our use.

Are floats allowed in the Parade?
No Floats or vehicles in this year's parade.

Are signs and banners allowed in the Parade?
Yes.

What happens if it rains? Or if it unseasonably warm?
We will be marching rain or shine, so come prepared.

Who is this year's Grand Marshal?
The 2010 Grand Marshal is Zona Roberts, mother of Ed Roberts, founder of the Independent Living Movement.

FESTIVAL

Where is the Festival location?
Silicon Valley Independent Living Center, 2202 N. First St., San Jose, CA 95131

What time will the Festival begin?
Upon conclusion of the Parade and reopening of the street, approximately 11:30 a.m.

Do I have to register to attend the Festival?
No, but it would be appreciated.
To Register Online: http://svilcdisabilityprideparade.eventbrite.com
To Register By Phone: Call us at 408.894.9041(866.945.2205 TTY)
To Register By Video phone: 408-457-8359

Will food and beverages be available at the Festival?
Yes. Box lunches will be available for sale. Menu and pricing information to be announced soon.

Will there be restrooms available for public use?
Yes, SVILC's restrooms will be available for public use, as well as accessible portapotties outside.

Where can we park at the Festival?
Free parking will be available in the SVILC parking lot.

What if it is raining or unseasonably warm?
The event will take place, rain or shine.

What will be happening at the Festival?
Enjoy visiting the tables of participating organizations, kids crafts, stage entertainment, and special guest speakers. Inside the SVILC Offices, see the Disability History Quilt, purchase your lunch, and learn about disability services.

Will reasonable accommodations be provided?
Yes, but you must let us know your needs in advance. We can supply material in large print and Braille and will have ASL interpreters and a few Personal Assistants at the Parade. When you register, please indicate what type of accommodation you will need.

IN GENERAL

Can I make a donation if I can't come?
Yes, please do! Your financial support is appreciated. You can donate online via credit card through our website or send a donation via snail mail. Please make checks payable to Silicon Valley Independent Living Center. Write "ADA"in the memo portion of your check.

Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes.

How can I volunteer and help out?
Yes! Donating your time and energy is a great way to get involved! We will need help setting up, greeting visitors, support roles throughout the day, as well as help cleaning up. For more information on how you can get involved, please contact Kathy Romero at kathyr@svilc.org or call 408.894.9041 or TTY: 866.945.2205 or video phone: 408.457.8359.

How do we become an event sponsor?
Contact Kathy Romero at kathyr@svilc.org or call 408.894.9041 Ext. 216 or TTY: 866.945.2205 or video phone: 408.457.8359.

What is disability pride?
Sarah Triano, founder of the Disability Pride Parade, set the goal: "To promote the belief in society that Disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity in which people living with Disabilities can take pride."

"That's a personal and radicalconcept.  Persons with disabilities must live and breathe it in order to communicate it to one another and society."

"We are not a society that can afford to throw away any person. Life and the many ways in which we live it is a prideful and precious thing. Not only do we as disabled people need to celebrate ourselves, our fellow citizens need to recognize the many ways in which we add to the world. Disability Pride is knowing that everything we are is something in which to take pride."

Why are we having a parade about disability pride?
Triano continues, "The sad sack, the brave overcomer, and the incapable are worn-out stereotypes the parade; refutes by giving us a time and space to celebrate ourselves as we are. First, we want to show the world the incredible joy that exists in our lives. We are part of the richness and diversity of this country and the world. The Parade is an international celebration of our continued and continuing survival. We also, by marching in this parade, we are giving the world a chance to express pride in us, too! We will not hide behind doors. We are in the street!"

What can I do in my own community to celebrate disability pride?
Reach out to folks with disabilities with activities promoting positive self-image, build a cross-disabilities community, expect the best from people and you'll get it
1.  Have your own parade! It doesn’t take much except pride (and an ability to work VERY hard).
2.  Have a picnic and make sure it’s accessible to everyone.
3.  Do a ribbon day! Have every one in your church, college, business, nursery school, etc.,  wear green, orange, and purple ribbons for the day.
4.  Take out an add in your local newspaper and write about Disability Pride.
5.  Call a popular radio station in your town and see if they’ll let you talk about disability pride.

What ever you do – understand that the more we do the more our pride shines and grows. All people with all kinds of disabilities have a right to be proud! We intend to say it, sing it, walk and talk it… we are and intend to be proud. JOIN US!

For accessible communication alternatives call 866.945.2205 for TTY or 408.457.8359 for video phone. SVILC office fax number is: 408.894.9050