It has been a few years since the Alliance Center for Independence held the NJ Disability Pride Parade (now called NJ Disability Pride in the Park). Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, things were placed on hold for everyone's safety. We are looking into the possibility of NJDPP in the Fall of 2023 and want your input! Please take our survey at the link below.
Voting Machine Demo Day 2022
ACI and REV UP NJ held its annual Voting Machine Demo Day on September 28th. Thank you to Middlesex County Board of Elections staff Seth Levinson, Valerie Henry and Jen Ratti who demonstrated the polling place check-in process and the county's new accessible machines!
Participants had a chance to try out the machine in preparation for the general election on November 8th. Remember: October 18th is the last day to register to vote!
This demo day is part of ACI and REV UP NJ's effort to engage people with disabilities in the election process. Funding is provided by the American Association of Persons with Disabilities (AAPD).
Visit our website for more info: adacil.org/voting
The Power of the Disability Vote Event in Trenton
Earlier this week, ACI and REV UP NJ held an event that highlighted the power of the disability vote at the NJ State House Annex in Trenton. Thank you to everyone who came out!
If you would like information on how to get involved with this year's election, please visit adacil.org/voting
Alliance Center for Independence and REV UP NJ Will Host a Disability Voting Event in Trenton on September 19th
On September 19th, dozens of disability advocates and voting rights experts will be attending The Power of the Disability Vote, an event held at the NJ State House Annex on 131 West State Street in Trenton. Time is set for 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM. This event is open to the public.
The purpose of the day is to underscore the importance of the disability vote in this year’s gubernatorial election. “With nearly 12% of the state’s population identifying themselves as having a disability, we need to show the candidates that our issues need to be addressed,” says Carole Tonks, Executive Director of Alliance Center for Independence.
The Alliance Center for Independence Launches a New Disability Podcast!
The Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) has recently launched a podcast that focuses on issues important to people with disabilities in NJ and throughout the country. The first episode was dropped on August 30th.
Chica and the Disabled Dude is hosted by Brenda Cazares, ACI’s employment services coordinator, and Nybil Ghanem, ACI’s Information and Referral Specialist. Nybil, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, will provide his first-hand perspective on work, living independently and breaking down attitudinal barriers. Brenda, a Spanish speaker with vast experience in the disability field, will showcase the unique issues facing Hispanic people with disabilities.
The podcast will feature guest interviews and on location broadcasts. Upcoming topics include: sex and people with disabilities, voting rights, employment, etiquette and accessibility.
Introducing ACI’s Newest Podcast...Chica and the Disabled Dude!
Coming to an ear near you! A podcast brought to you by the Alliance Center for Independence with your hosts Brenda Cazares and Nybil Ghanem. Chica and the Disabled Dude is a platform to discuss the day to day issues and topics of concern to people with disabilities. Ranging from disability rights, history and benefits, to conversational pieces on dating, representation in the media, and societal barriers. Tune in as we discuss some of the active work ACI is doing to serve those within the community. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Anchor!
Summer Luau Dance Party! ☀️
On August 19th, ACI held a fun summer luau at Joy's Dance House in Fords. Dozens of people came out to enjoy a fun-filled evening with DJ Mike, food, drinks, snacks, games and prizes! We all had so much fun!
