ABLE NH breaking ground with 2nd Annual Disability Justice Parade

Following the parade, the crowd gathered for a welcome from the Vice President of the ABLE NH board, Alex Beauchner. “Our parade is a testament to the strength, resilience, and courage of individuals with disabilities. It’s a celebration of the countless achievements and milestones that often go unnoticed. It’s a reminder that disability justice is a fundamental human rights issue.”

Mayor Joyce Craig also presented a resolution from the City of Manchester proclaiming October 14th, 2023 as Disability Justice Day in the city. “I urge all citizens to do their part as we work together toward advancing disability equity, dignity, access and inclusion.”

The Disability Justice Parade kicked off the Fall Fusion Festival, with SEE Science Center for a viewing of the partial solar eclipse, a ribbon cutting unveiling mural artwork on the city bridge, vendors, music and dancing.

Advocates Building Lasting Equality (ABLE NH)’s mission is to advocate for the civil and human rights of children and adults with disabilities and promote full participation by: improving systems, connecting families, inspiring communities, and influencing public policy.

If you would like to get involved in the work ABLE does, more information can be found at ablenh.org

Make sure to check out our partner installation at the newest Kimball Jenkins shows called Phaneron.

Some brilliant art by artist Amber Nicole Cannan will be featured encapsulating the experience of ableist notions of mobility in Manchester and a cyanotype quilt made from all our community members will be on view.

Mission, Vision, and Guiding Principles

rev. 6.21.2023

Mission:
Advocates Building Lasting Equality in NH advocates for the civil and human rights of children and adults with disabilities. We promote full participation by: improving systems, connecting families, inspiring communities, and influencing public policy.
Vision:
To live in a world where the social, emotional, economic, and human rights of people with disabilities are fully realized.
Guiding Principles:
1. We believe the history and lessons of Laconia State School must never be forgotten. Systems at the state and federal level that support citizens’ ability to remain in their homes, their communities, and prevent institutionalization must be protected.
2. We believe it is necessary to build strong coalitions and a broad and powerful base to ensure that citizens of all abilities have adequate supports and services. No one group in need of support can ever truly benefit at the expense of another. United We Must Stand!
3. We believe waiting lists should not exist. People who need assistance must have prompt access to the high-quality services and supports they need to maintain their health and safety and live in their communities with freedom and dignity.
4. We believe that Medicaid and human service reform efforts must prioritize New Hampshire’s commitment to Community Based Care.
5. We believe the world must be educated on issues of importance to people with disabilities. That includes neighbors, family, friends and public officials year-round, as well as during election cycles and in budget seasons.
6. We believe there must be a continuous flow of new leaders who are trained and empowered to share their voices, organize, and step into leadership roles in a variety of capacities.
7. We believe systems change should always incorporate the voices and input of people with disabilities. “Nothing about us without us.”
8. We believe we should seek to amplify the voices of people with disabilities in our partnerships.

---