Tucson Gears Up for 3rd Annual Disability Pride Day This Saturday!

Tucson is set to host its third annual Disability Pride Day this Saturday, December 7, at the Udall Park Senior Center, located at 7200 E. Tanque Verde Rd. The celebration will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is organized by Ward 2 Councilmember Paul Cunningham’s office.

The event promises a vibrant atmosphere featuring food, music, and performances by disabled artists. Attendees can enjoy adaptive sports, view a curated art exhibition, and engage in a meet-and-greet with Paralympians. A highlight of the day will be a panel discussion with prominent disability advocates.

The panel will include Cunningham, local author and Disability Futures Fellow Naomi Ortiz, Community Outreach Director Chris Desborough, and former state representative Jennifer Longdon, who will deliver the keynote address.

Desborough, who is visually impaired, was the driving force behind establishing Disability Pride Day Tucson in 2022. Cunningham has praised Desborough’s efforts, noting his significant contributions to enhancing awareness of the needs of visually impaired individuals and the broader disability community within the city.