|
By Michael
Harris
 Members of New York’s disability community made
their voices heard as they joined more than 350,000 people across the country
in the April 29 march for peace, justice and democracy. More than 100 people
with disabilities, including a 35-person contingent from Disabled in Action
(DIA) of Metropolitan New York, joined the likes of Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev.
Jesse Jackson, Susan Sarandon, Chevy Chase and Reps. Major Owens (D-Dist. 11)
and Charles Rangel (D-Dist. 15) in the march down Broadway.
“We are
all united here today to say no to this unjust war in Iraq,” said Leslie
Kagan, national director for United for Peace and Justice, the lead group
behind the march. “We are delighted to be joined by members of all
communities, including those with disabilities.”
The two
and one half hour march concluded with a democracy festival in Foley Square,
which included a performance by the DIA Singers.
“I think
that people with disabilities, like the majority of Americans, adamantly oppose
this unjust war,” said activist Anne Emerman. “This is of particular
impact to the disability community, as it forces cuts in the budget for vital
programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.”
“[Disabled in Action] has a long
history of advocating for peace, justice and what is right,” said DIA
member Nadina LaSpina. “As we march under [the DIA] banner, we are sending
a message that [the disability community] stands against unjust military action
overseas.
Two contingents of people with disabilities that were observed were
DIA and Disabled Veterans for Peace, although Kagan said that she thought that
there were probably others who “just blended into the stream of
people.”
504 Democratic Club President Marvin Wasserman said that while club
members did not march under the 504 banner, “many members of 504 are also
involved in DIA.” He went on to say that many club members, including
executive committee members did participate in the march. “The 504
Democratic Club was certainly represented.”
The march and
festival brought back memories of longtime disabled activist Frieda Zames, who
died last year. “Frieda wouldn’t have missed this for the
world,” said Emerman. “She never missed an opportunity to demonstrate
in support of social justice.”
Michael Imperiale, Frieda’s partner of 40
years, was on hand for the festival with a sign on his scooter that read,
“Build ramps, not bombs.”
Holding up a sign that read “War is not
the answer,” DIA President Carr Massi passed out leaflets promoting
membership in DIA, while Emerman joined the Clearwater Singers in folk
songs.
“I am proud to be here today and to have my voice be
heard,” said Massi. “This is a great turnout for the disability
community and a great day for democracy.
|
