Let’s Talk Voter Accessibility

white and grey voting day sign — Photo by Element5 Digital on Pexels.com

With Election Day, Nov.5th, coming up it’s vital we talk about voter accessibility for people with disabilities.

On August 21st, 2024 I was lucky enough to attend a Voter Accessibility Know Your Rights Workshop and Demonstration at The Lighthouse Guild.

If you aren’t familiar with them , allow me to introduce you to this amazing organization. The Lighthouse Guild was officially formed in December 2013 when Jewish Guild Healthcare and Lighthouse International combined, to become the leading not-for-profit vision and healthcare organization.

Drawing on more than 200 years of combined service, with histories dating back to 1914 and 1905, respectively, Lighthouse Guild’s experience is extensive. In short, these people know what they are doing when it comes to assisting people with disabilities. Specifically, people who are blind or have low vision can greatly benefit from their vast array of services. Not blind or low vision ? I’m certain they can lead you in the right direction for your needs.

Because of their expertise and involvement in the community , their Manhattan location was the perfect spot to host an informative voter accessibility session . Before I go any further, I want to share how the seed was planted for such a workshop.

For you see, The Lighthouse Guild is lucky enough to have a Rockstar Volunteer, Dorothy Delayo . For many years now, Dorothy has worked for free assisting people with various services at the Guild . Not only that, she’s also consistently volunteered at New York City Election Poll Sites. While she participated in helping voters , she noticed on several occasions that people with disabilities were uninformed.

To be clear, they were not uninformed about who was running but uniformed about the voter accessiblity and accommodations available. For this reason, Dorothy decided to take matters into her own hands. She let the Lighthouse Guild know about this problem . As a result , they took action.

A solution was found by contacting the NYC Board of Elections. Delightfully, they agreed to send their Accessibility Queen, Ariel Merkel to come and share her wealth of knowledge with us. As the Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator , Merkel knows a thing or two about Voter Accessibility in New York City.

The information we learned at the workshop is invaluable. And we owe it all to Dorothy, the poll volunteer, for speaking up! Additionally, I have to mention that Dorothy says she’s 85 years old, but believe me when I say , she looks 65! Gotta be that service to others that’s keeping her young and active. Wouldn’t you say ? Thank You for dedication to making a difference, Dorothy Delayo. I’ll have what she’s having .

BMD machine -Ballot Marking Device Voter Booth that has privacy walls on each side and a touch screen and headphones

Thank you for your support. Click & Subscribe Below

You can also learn more at https://www.vote.nyc/page/accessibility

Contact Lighthouse Guild here https://lighthouseguild.org/

August 23, 2024August 23, 2024

It Only Takes One Person To Make A Difference In This Life!

a scene from a Broadway stage that looks like a dream come to life very magical with lots of objects handing down from ceiling

Aaron Lazar who was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in 2022 is making his mark on the world. Recently he got over 75 Broadway Stars and some other famous names, such as Sting and Josh Groban to join forces with him to raise awareness for the disease.

Read the article from People Magazine below

and watch the video for his song here https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxL_KHZAzNkj0C0-A91-1k99TratbPZfS&si=GZ_FgeJB4-YG6chv

https://people.com/aaron-lazar-impossible-dream-video-exclusive-8699677

August 18, 2024August 18, 2024

Free Tickets For Kids to Broadway

black wall with yellow sign that says ticket in black lettering

Time to Get Tickets!

Kid’s Night on Broadway is Here

Kids Night on Broadway is back. Kids and teens ages 18 & under can attend a participating Broadway show for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult*.

Tickets for Kids’ Night on Broadway in NYC on August 20, 2024, are on sale now.

Get your ticket below

https://www.kidsnightonbroadway.com/ brought to you by the Broadway League.

Is your child interested in participating in theater?

I’ve got good news, you can find a program below

https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/programs-classes/arts-and-culture/

May 23, 2024May 23, 2024

All Of Me has my heart!

A Disability LOVE Story is the talk of the town!

a heterosexual couple both look at each other lovingly as they sit in their wheelchairs. Their family members stand behind them -the photo belongs to the new group producers of the show

ALL OF ME, a disability love story is breaking through barriers like never before!

The show opened at the end of April and has been the talk of the Disability Community. Why?

Well for starters, two of the leading roles are played by actors who use wheelchairs daily. It’s not able-bodied actors playing disabled characters, which sadly still happens quite often.

But with theatrical Shows like ALL OF ME, the landscape is changing slowly but surely. Directors are finally starting to get the message that if you want a truly authentic betrayal you need to have a disabled person playing a disabled role.

The beauty of this show is that not only does it feature one main star in a wheelchair, we get TWO! To my knowledge, in 9 years of NYC shows, I haven’t ever seen TWO characters in wheelchairs on stage together at the same time. One yes, but two? Fuggetaboutit! And oh, it gets even better. It’s a love story! Not some pity party. Then there’s the way they communicate with one another. Are you ready for it? Trust me you aren’t.

They use communication devices! Yeah, dat’s right friends. Communication Devices on a NewYork Stage In A Play! WHHHAAATTTT ? I swear I was grinning ear to ear the minute they started talking because I had no idea this would be happening. What was especially beautiful was to watch the amount of acting that took place just through their faces. There is so much humor in the show too and lord knows we all need a good laugh these days!

To top it off in true accessibility fashion, The New Group, producers of the show are offering different themed nights such as a date night, audio description night, and even a relaxed performance. Just to name a few! I wish every show had all these offerings don’t you ? I’m hoping by all of us talking about this show other theater producers will take note!

Get your tickets by clicking below my friends, you won’t want to miss it! https://thenewgroup.org/production/all-of-me/

I loved the play so much that I had to make a video sharing my thoughts. You can watch my review by clicking below. Please subscribe while you are at it!

https://youtu.be/vtnBziTH8Wg?si=5iqmIJF4D3aRljdU

Don’t forget to message me on Instagram or comment on Youtube letting me know how much you loved it! Talk again soon.

April 18, 2024

We’ve Been Waiting For You Cafe Joyeux

cappuccino in white ceramic cup on white ceramic saucer

Exciting News for our neighborhood. New York’s first-of-its-kind inclusive
French coffee shop has made it from the heart of France to Midtown East.
Since 2017, Cafe Joyeux (pronounced joy-you) has had the mission of
providing employment and training for people with mental and cognitive
disabilities. With over 19 locations in Europe, making disability visible in
culinary jobs has proven to be a successful concept thus far. And what
better place to make their American debut than in the middle of Manhattan?
Centrally located at 52nd Street and Lexington Avenue, Cafe Joyeux
boasts warm hospitality and delicious French gourmet goodies served fresh
daily.

What makes it different from other coffee shops?

In the first place, not only does the family of cafes provide meaningful
engagement with society for its employees, but customers also gain the
opportunity to embrace differences in one another. Because, you see, 95 %
of their employees have a disability. As far as I know, there is no other
business in New York that this is the case. With this radical innovation of a
high intellectual disability employment rate, Cafe Joyeoux’s mission is to
open hearts and minds. By recruiting trainees who have a disability such as
Autism or Down Syndrome, for example, specialists work as a team to
teach vocational skills needed to work in a professional company
environment. Business Positions include greeter, food preparer, cashier,
and waitstaff. Employees learn the skills to do all positions then restaurant
managers adapt job roles to fit each person’s ability.

What do they serve?

All Joyeux team members are happy to serve the usual coffee varieties of
lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos. Homemade hot chocolate, tea, and
lemonade are also available. Drinks usually have a sprinkle of love and
kindness thrown in each cup. Prepared on-site are luscious French pastries
like almond croissants and triple chocolate cookies. Yum!
Beyond dessert, you’ll find savory treats such as bacon and cheese
bun, sweet potato soup, or a Waldorf salad.

Besides the people and food, you’ll want to spend time soaking up the
atmosphere. With high ceilings, plenty of seating, and large windows, you
can’t help but be in a good mood. After all, Joyeoux does mean happiness in
English. I’m pleased to report the Cafe is also accessible to people using a
wheelchair or walker. Complete with an accessible bathroom as well.
Cafe Joyeoux is on a mission to include people with intellectual disability in
society through work and everyday encounters. By gaining confidence and
experience, Cafe employees’ daily lives become filled with purpose and
belonging. I’m beyond thrilled that they are here. Let us support their efforts.
I think you’ll find The Joy Will Be With You.

Cafe Joyeoux
599 Lexington Ave
Hours 7:30 am-5 pm M-F
8:00 am-4 pm Sat
Closed Sundays
For more Disability Content follow me @TheDisabilityAllyNYC Instagram click here https://www.instagram.com/thedisabilityallynyc/

August 2, 2022August 11, 2022

SocRoc Soccer Classes

*This is a sponsored post on behalf of SocRoc written by me. Opinions are 100% Mine

I’m excited to announce that SocRoc Soccer has joined the Inclusion Revolution with Adaptive Soccer Classes. That’s right. NYC’s number 1 Soccer Program now offers specialized classes for members of the disability community. Here’s the scoop or as I like to say “Here’s the Disabili-tea”.

You might remember that time I was on the cover of a magazine? No? As a matter of fact, it’s true. In April of 2022, I was the Cover Star in Sutton Place Social’s local neighborhood magazine. Well, coincidentally SocRoc Soccer who advertises in that mag, read my story and came to the event we had to raise Autism Awareness. In the midst of us raising funds for charity, Heather Christie, CEO came up to me and introduced herself. Of course, my face lit up when she asked if she could enlist my help with catering to those kids who have a disability. After that, I had a phone call set with Heather’s brother former soccer professional, James Christie in no time.

At this point, I learned James already has some experience in working with patrons at SNACK *. Therefore I know you are in good hands. You know Snack*, I have talked about them before. They provide after-school and weekend activities for all abilities as well-but first let’s talk some more SocRoc Soccer.

With SocRoc you will be in a 2 :1 ratio with a certified Special Olympics Developmental Coach. Fantastic, right ?! No worrying that the coach is not trained in working with those with disabilities. SocRoc will cater your lesson to your ability. It doesn’t get better than that unless you choose to do a private session, which is also available. Oh and I almost forgot SocRoc does Birthday Parties ! In short-there is a reason why they get voted number one year after year. Go see for yourself and I do hope you’ll let me know how it goes. Get Kicking and click the link below.

Learn more about their programs and sign up here https://socrocnyc.com/kids-with-disabilities/

Want to learn more about Snack* too? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/special-needs-program-midtown-category-programs-classes-snack-special-needs-activity-center-kids-adults/?v=7516fd43adaa

July 26, 2022July 26, 2022

Free Movie About Autism

So I just discovered a great Free Movie About Autism that is included on Amazon Prime. You can’t go wrong with simple. clean, and wholesome entertainment. The beauty is that this free movie shines a light on Autism Awareness. The best part I’ve provided the link right here. Just one click and you’ll be watching in no time. Enjoy, my friends.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B07DF64GBW/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Did you know I actually have curated a whole slew of books, movies, and adaptive clothes just for you?

https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

hey are you following yet on Instagram ? https://www.instagram.com/thedisabilityallynyc/

July 21, 2022July 30, 2022

Other Great Books Written By or About People with Disabilities

opened book on tree root — Photo by rikka ameboshi on Pexels.com

Nothing Like Curling Up With A Great Book

Check out these other wonderful titles I’ve Curated Just for You!

Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You byJustice Sonia Sotomayer https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

Emmanuel’s Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah by Lauren Ann Thompson https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

Roll With It by Jaime Sumner https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

I Talk Like A River by Jordan Scott https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

She Persisted: Temple Grandin https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

When Charley Met Emma by Amy Webb https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

July 20, 2022July 30, 2022

Young Adult book by Judy Heumann

person sitting on wheelchair — Photo by Marcus Aurelius on Pexels.com

Rolling Warrior by Judy Heumann

Judy Heumann is one of the most influential disability rights activists in US history.  She tells her own personal story in Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist.  The book is a great read but because she knows what the world needs she also wrote a young adult version.  That one is titled, Rolling Warrior which couldn't be more appropriate.  The cover reads like this: Rolling Warrior The incredible sometimes awkward, true story of a rebel girl on wheels who helped spark a revolution.

If you read my movies section already you have heard me talk about Crip Camp-The Award-winning documentary that tells the story of the camp for the disabled in Upstate New York back in the 70s. Judy Heumann attended that camp with several other people who are disabled and became lifelong friends. I can’t say enough good things about that movie. It is one of the reasons I sit here typing on this page. The movie was life-changing for me and inspired me to be a dedicated advocate for those with disabilities

Anyhoo, I veered off. It happens with me. My intention is to tell you that Judy Heumann knows her audience well enough to write a young adult version of her adult book. I really appreciate the fact that she wrote Rolling Warrior for you because her story is relatable to many. Heumann was only five years old when she was first denied her right to attend school. To explain further, she was told she was a “fire hazard” because of her wheelchair. Did you know that she became paralyzed by polio? The poliovirus destroys nerve cells in the spinal cord causing muscle wasting and paralysis. Thank goodness we now have the polio vaccine. Sadly we didn’t have one back when Judy needed it most. Her story is one of resilience and bravery. In my opinion, the history of Disability Rights is something that needs to be part of the curriculum in schools. In the meantime, take a moment to read either one of her books.

here is the link -just head to the teen books about disability list https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_tb_vh

You can also get the adult version for a friend, caregiver, or parent -You will find it on the adult books about disability list

Better still, you can listen to her audio version on audible! https://amzn.to/3zIMTey

July 1, 2022July 30, 2022

Adaptive Clothing

I just learned that Adaptive clothing can be bought with a few simple clicks. In short, order through Amazon Prime and you’ll get it tomorrow! What a beautiful moment in time for us. As a result of demand, lots of name brands have jumped on board the Adaptive Clothing train.

For instance, Tommy Hilfiger says it’s all about the magnets. With his complete adaptive line of skirts, shirts, joggers, and button-downs you’ll love getting dressed. Can you imagine actually being ready before the bus gets there? Yeah, me either but we can dream. Adaptive clothing takes the stress out of your mornings. What’s more, you can do it on your own. Independence has got some swag up in here. All thanks to a few tweaks.

Additionally when your order with Amazon Prime you have Free Returns. Therefore, you have the freedom to try adaptive clothing for yourself. Then you’ll see just how breezy getting ready can be.

Here are some of my favorites

https://www.amazon.com/shop/thedisabilityallynyc?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp

Unisex tee shirts are always in style -you can’t go wrong with this classic look