Showing Up and Speaking Out at the Disability Pride Festival

ACT's 3rd Annual Disability Pride Festival

There were sunny skies and a strong turnout for ACT’s 3rd Annual Disability Pride Festival on July 17 at the Minnesota State Capitol. The event brought together community members, advocates, and allies in a celebration of visibility, equity, and action.

Minnesota Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan delivered a powerful keynote, expressing solidarity with the disability community during these uncertain times and budget cuts, while reaffirming the mantra “nothing about us, without us.”

She also signed our poster board for the Hoffman family (see photo). The event featured live music, dancing, an open mic for advocates, free food trucks, a souvenir table, and more.

We met several organizers and fellow activists, leading to great conversations at our table, a healthy number of new newsletter sign-ups, and a meaningful connection with Ramsey County District 1 Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh. We had an extended conversation with her about the importance of maintaining open dialogue as counties navigate the fiscal implications of recent budget agreements.