During Disability Pride Month in July, The Seattle Disability Arts Festival was hosted at the new Waterfront Park with the spirit of community and a gracious understanding of fundamental human needs. The event underscored that true access is a state of mind, rooted in care, hospitality, and a proactive effort to anticipate and meet people where they are at. 

The curator of the festival Teresa Thuman discussed cross-movement solidarity, a core principle of disability justice that rejects the idea of a singular identity and acknowledges the diverse ways individuals experience barriers and oppression. Bringing a festival for people with diverse disabilities to the new Waterfront Park provided a crucial opportunity for people to understand that these events are for everyone. 

Rapper King Khazm, who performed at the festival, expressed gratitude for the chance to share his art and continue building momentum and awareness for other amazing talents. Mickey Rowe, a neurodivergent stilt performer at the festival, explained that while society is often uncomfortable with disabilities, his performance on stilts brings smiles to everyone who sees him. The overarching message of the festival was clear: to encourage recognition of disabled individuals as whole humans, fostering a community where everyone can be seen, celebrated, and proud of who they are.

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