Ninth annual Nebraska Disability Pride Event held in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – Friday marked the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, ensuring they have equal rights and opportunities.

Hundreds of Lincolnites filled one local park to celebrate the milestone.

What started out nearly a decade ago as a small gathering of about 15 people in front of the State Capitol has now become the annual Nebraska Disability Pride Event

People came to celebrate how far cities like Lincoln have come to accommodate everybody, everywhere.

The celebration took place at Antelope Park for the second year in a row, though this year saw some special modifications for the event. A sidewalk ramp was built by Lincoln Parks and Recreation to allow those in wheelchairs to access the state. Quiet zones were marked off for those with hearing sensitivities, allowing all to comfortably be apart of the party.

The passing of the ADA in 1990 allowed those like Gloria Eddins to more comfortably be apart of their communities.

“Things weren’t accessible,” Eddins said. “They weren’t built for people like us. Slowly but surely over the last 30 years, those barriers have come down and access for all is being granted.”

“It’s really unique to have a gathering of other people like me and it’s just normal,” said Keith Hafermann, Lincolnite. I don’t feel in the way with my wheelchair, because other people are like me. It’s really cool.”

Dozens of vendors specializing in services for people with disabilities line the sidewalks of the park, including the Rescue and Reuse event, who collected donations of medical equipment all week to give away to those who needed it for free.

On Friday, Rescue and Reuse were able give out 21 items, including three power wheelchairs.

Organizers said that last year more than 800 people attended, a record for them that they think was beat this year.
While the event was the most accessible the celebration has been so far, they said they always work to make each year more inclusive.

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