Spectrum of Sound (from the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism), a choir comprised of autism self-advocates set the mood at the ceremony to raise awareness and support for disability rights.

The flag raising ceremony was held on the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (July 26, 2023). The flag was designed by talented Framingham resident, Rob Levine, and commissioned by the Framingham Disability Commission in 2022. Its creation serves as a tribute to the late co-founder of the commission, Karen Foran Dempsey. In honor of her legacy, the City renamed the ballroom in Historic Village Hall after her in July 2022.

The flag’s colors are a vibrant mix of blue, green, and white, representing the diverse experiences of disability – from neurodivergence to mobility impairments, deaf/hard of hearing, visual impairments, and more. The powerful words “Disability, Rights, & Human” are displayed on the flag, symbolizing the interconnectedness of disability rights with human rights.

After several speakers, including City of Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky, State Representative Denise Garlick, State Representative Priscila Sousa, City Councilor Janet Leombruno, and Disability Commission member Tyler Terrasi, shared their thoughts, the Framingham Disability Commission (including Rose Quinn (MWCIL) and Tyler Terrasi (BOD of MWCIL) raised the flag over the Memorial Building.