Disability Pride Parade to step off in Chicago

July 14, 2013 (CHICAGO) (WLS) -- Chicago is a city of parades representing different cultures, ethnic groups and disabilities.

Next Saturday is the 10th anniversary of the Disability Pride Parade, which includes people with disabilities from different organizations and groups.

It's fun, colorful and meaningful.

The Disability Pride Parade kicks off at Plymouth and Van Buren at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 20. More than 1,500 people are expected to participate.

"Then, we march Dearborn to the celebration at Daley Plaza when it goes until about 3," said Byl Adam, a member of the parade committee. "Daley Plaza is where we have our post-parade celebration. All of our sponsors and contributors have a booth there. So, people can get a lot of different information."

The parade's mission is to promote disability pride, says Gary Arnold.

"Disability is a natural part of who we are, and chances are, it is going to impact each one of us at some point in our lives. Disability pride means embracing that and being proud of that and celebrating that," Arnold said.

Chicago's parade has encouraged other cities to follow because of the impact it has on the community.

" I think disability is being recognized not as something that needs to be fixed or taken care of -- or even hidden. I think, now, we have really brought disability out into the open," Arnold said.

Last year, Ald. Bob Fiaretti designated Plymouth Court as Disability Pride Parade Way.

"Which is such a thrill for us," said Adam.

Brittany King, 22, has been coming to the parade since 2010. She said it changed her.

"We talk about the aspect of disability pride, and then, we see it happening," she said.

"The parade is [for] people who want to come and attend, people who want to become a part of the celebration, and it is open to anyone" Adam said.

For more information go to www.disabilityprideparade.org

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