BREAKING: The Disability Pride Flag is now flying high over Fitchburg City Hall as the city marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Mayor Sam Squailia and community members raised the flag early on July 22, 2023, in a powerful tribute to this landmark civil rights legislation.
The ADA, signed into law on July 26, 1990, prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and is critical in ensuring equal access to jobs, education, and public spaces. Mayor Squailia shared photos of the event on social media, emphasizing the flag’s significance and the ongoing commitment to inclusivity in Fitchburg.
“This flag represents resilience, pride, and unity,” Squailia stated. “Fitchburg is proud to stand with the disability community, this week and every week, as we continue working toward a city that is accessible and inclusive for all.”
The Disability Pride Flag, designed by Ann Magill, features vibrant colors symbolizing various aspects of disability: red for physical disabilities, gold for neurodiversity, white for invisible disabilities, blue for emotional and psychiatric conditions, green for sensory disabilities, and a faded black background honoring victims of violence and abuse.
Community member Cristy Lee Potter Guy, a lifelong Fitchburg resident, reflected on her personal journey as a legally blind individual. “Becoming legally blind in Fitchburg in 1987 before the ADA was a challenging experience,” she shared. “The passage of the ADA brought recognition, progress, and acceptance, but there’s still work to be done.”
Additionally, flags from various nations, including Brazil, Canada, Finland, Germany, Israel, and Puerto Rico, are also displayed at Heritage Park, serving as a visual representation of Fitchburg’s diverse community. The flags, which are typically flown from late spring to late fall, were installed last month.
Mayor Squailia described these flags as “our community connection to the world,” highlighting the importance of cultural representation and inclusivity within Fitchburg. The park is located downtown on Boulder Drive, near the Water Street bridge, making it a focal point for community engagement.
As Fitchburg celebrates this important milestone, the city stands committed to promoting awareness and action for the disability community, ensuring that every individual has equal opportunity and access.
Stay tuned for more updates on this significant celebration and the ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility in Fitchburg.