September 07, 2017
Occupational Therapy students from the Downers Grove Campus of Midwestern University participate in the annual Disability Pride Parade in Chicago.
Students from Midwestern University's Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) participated in the Disability Pride Parade in downtown Chicago this summer. The Disability Pride Parade is an annual event celebrating the differences amongst people and recognizing that disabilities are a part of those differences. The parade is a way for individuals to proclaim pride and self-acceptance in who they are, and to challenge the way people think about disabilities.
This year marked the 14th Disability Pride Parade in Chicago. Students and faculty from the Downers Grove Campus of Midwestern University marched from the Harold Washington Library to Daley Plaza. As part of the post-parade activities, the occupational therapy (OT) students organized a booth with face painting, temporary tattoos, crafts, games, and jewelry-making.
The SOTA members have proudly participated in this event for years as a way to support disability rights. As OT students, they study ways to help individuals live life to the fullest. Advocating for people with disabilities is just one way Midwestern University OT students participate in disability rights.