Disabled Marriage Equality Event Covered by Local NJ News
Posted in: Announcements, College News and Events
Dr. Priya Lalvani, Professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning, recently hosted (together with Dr. Elaine Gerber, Associate Professor of Anthropology) an evening of humor, activism, and love on campus. Through her role as Corresponding Secretary for The MSU Disability Caucus, Dr. Lalvani, along with ReelAbilities NJ Film Festival and the Office for Social Justice and Diversity, presented: ‘I DO!’ Commit to Disabled Marriage Equality! The College of Education and Human Services is proud to have two other community members serve on the Disability Caucus. Dr. Alicia Broderick, Professor, serves as President and Dr. Jessica Bacon, Associate Professor, serves as Member-At-Large.
On the heels of Valentine’s Day, Patrice Jetter, disabled artist and advocate from Netflix’s WORN STORIES, officiated a mass (low commitment) commitment/wedding ceremony where all guests were invited to participate. This act of solidarity was of course not legally binding, but provided allies and spectators with the opportunity to support disabled marriage equality. As a fun form of participation, guests were encouraged to wear festive wedding attire.
The event has received further coverage after being picked up by NorthJersey.com and NJ Spotlight News.
Watch Now! (Video coverage begins at 12:37)
Interracial and gay marriage has been codified at last. But disabled Americans remain excluded from this basic right. The federal “marriage penalty” affects the lives of millions of disabled Americans who can’t legally marry because they will lose their benefits. A new bill in the Senate could change the “marriage penalty” if enough people speak out. To get involved, be on the lookout for more upcoming events sponsored by The MSU Disability Caucus.