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NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTNH) — An event in New Britain Wednesday evening brought people from all walks of life together emphasizing equality for those with disabilities at the 2026 Ability Walk and Roll.
No matter how people arrived to Wednesday’s Walk and Roll, all were celebrating the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, ensuring fair treatment for all with disabilities.
“We like to really show pride in New Britain for any underserved population, and this is a chance for them to get resources and show their own pride too,” Community Services Program Manager Kelly Murphy said.
At the center of the fun was a stroll through the park with friends, family, and strangers. The City of New Britain is undertaking an initiative to make Walnut Hill Park and more areas around the city sensory-friendly to all individuals. The proceeds from Wednesday’s event went to that goal.
“Having a disability is not easy sometimes,” Melody Rivera, Chairwoman of the Commission of Persons with Disabilities said. “We may not always get the support we need, but today is a day of celebration. Remembering the good times, and no matter what you are going through, there are people out there to help us.”
“I think that it is important, that it is familiar faces and it is a space that is accessible, in order to celebrate,” Murphy said.
The event means something different to nearly everyone taking part, but many say they look forward to it every year.
“Freedom,” Mark Voight said in his third year at the event. “You are not tied to being inside, you can get out.”
This was the 18th year for the event in New Britain and the 36th year since the act was passed.
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