December 5, 2024

As part of Global Diversity Awareness Month, Mercy Home youth and coworkers focused on issues faced by people with disabilities and disability rights advocacy. Educational activities throughout October culminated in an art gallery dedicated to the subject. Our youth were invited to create an advocacy art poster, promoting disability rights, inclusion, accessibility, and equity.

“We have youth that have either some physical disabilities or have openly discussed their hidden disabilities that they live day-to-day with,” said coworker Niara Marshall who helped organize the program. “I wanted to make sure we took the time to celebrate and get the youth involved in a way that could give them a creative outlet.”

At the art gallery event, youth shared the meaning of their paintings. One young woman, Liz, described one of the paintings and reflected on its meaning and symbolism.

“[The painting] represents [the fact] that everybody is welcomed,” Liz said. “We have people around it in a circle coming together, bringing a sense of community. In the corners we have various people with various disabilities. There is a person with a nurse hat. We have one with a paintbrush, a basketball, saying that “you can be anything”. It doesn’t matter what disability you have. If you can put your mind to it, you can do it.”

Another youth, Nia, examined a painting she created with fellow youth and wanted her peers to understand the importance of accepting people with disabilities.

“I wanted people to understand that if somebody has a disability, don’t make fun of them because you think they can’t do stuff or do the same things as you,” she said.

“I thought [the art gallery] turned out even better than what I imagined,” Marshall said. “It was so nice to hear the youth talk so intentionally and deeply about the topic.”

“My favorite part was hearing the very thoughtful and meaningful conversations that had led to the creation of their art pieces,” added coworker Russel Pagano. Pagano and Marshall are members of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee who, along with member Phil Zielinski organized the month-long program.

Our youth left the art gallery feeling inspired, and with a greater sense of comfort, knowing that they can safely talk about their disabilities.

“They gained a sense of community, connection, and safety,” Marshall said.

Thank you to our coworkers who create a safe space for our kids to be themselves, and for embracing them as they are.