ADVOCATES, SUPPORTERS, AND COMMUNITY LEADERS GATHER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS RALLY

Over 100 advocates, supporters, and community leaders gathered at the Trenton War Memorial on October 5th for the REV UP New Jersey rally, Our Pride. Our Power. Our Community.

We gathered because the civil rights, services, and supports that allow people with disabilities to live independently are under threat. Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, challenges to Section 504 protections, barriers to accessible housing and transportation, and policies that could force more disabled people into institutions affect real people, families, and communities.

We gathered to remind our elected officials that people with disabilities have the right to make choices about their own lives, live in their communities, receive the services they need, and participate fully in civic life.

The rally also recognized October 5th as Disability Rights Day in New Jersey through a proclamation issued by Governor Mikie Sherrill. We appreciate the support of the Governor’s Office, Senator Cory Booker, Senator Andy Kim, Congressman Frank Pallone (click here to read his statement), Assemblywoman Carol Murphy, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, and the representatives who joined us or shared messages of support.

We also thank the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities,the New Jersey Statewide Independent Living Council, the New Jersey Association of Centers for Independent Living, AAPD REV UP, the speakers, volunteers, staff, and organizations that helped make the day possible.

Our greatest thanks go to the advocates who showed up, spoke out, shared their experiences, registered to vote, and stood together in defense of disability rights!

The message heard throughout the day was clear…

WE WILL NOT GO BACK!

The rally may be over, but our work continues. We will continue working to protect civil rights, community living, choice, independence, and opportunity.

Carole Tonks

ACI Executive Director

NEW JERSEY PROCLAIMS OCTOBER 5 DISABILITY RIGHTS DAY

At ACI’s request, Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a proclamation recognizing October 5, 2026, as Disability Rights Day in New Jersey, in honor of the Our Pride. Our Power. Our Community. Disability Rights Rally.

The proclamation recognizes the right of people with disabilities to fully participate in community, civic, and public life. We’re grateful to the Governor for recognizing this day and joining us in affirming that disability rights are civil rights.

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