Written by: Medha Mulabagal, FCSN Voices Youth Reporter
Graphics by: Katherine Geng, FCSN Voices Senior Graphic Artist
It was a warm day with the sun shining brightly as crowds of people of all ages and backgrounds eagerly followed the neon markers labeled "This Way to the Disability Resource Festival." Held on September 24 at Ardenwood Farm in Fremont, the Disability Resource Festival was hosted by the City of Fremont Human Relations Commission, in partnership with FCSN. The goal of this free event was to connect people with disabilities at all ages and to promote safety with law enforcement in the disabled community. In a day full of festivity and information, participants visited many booths by community organizations and attended safety demonstrations by police and fire departments, all while soaking in the lively music, games, and entertainment.
FCSN Volunteers before the festival
Volunteers smiling proudly at the FCSN Booth
This is the second year the Disability Resource Festival has taken place. The event was in memory of late Human Services Commissioner Feda and her son, Muhammed (Mu) Almaliti. Feda Almaliti was an avid and passionate advocate for the needs of disabled and neurodiverse citizens and was co-founder of the National Council on Severe Autism. She has done a multitude of actions for the community from organizing Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area conferences and sharing experiences through her podcast, The Scoop, to hosting autism family pool parties. In 2009, Feda began fighting for health insurance companies to cover treatment for autism, and in 2012, she made it a reality when, with other advocates in California, she helped pass the first autism insurance reform bill. In 2020, during a house fire, Feda rushed back into the house to rescue Muhammed; when unable to guide him out, she chose to stay, embracing her son in her arms among the flames. In memory of Feda's fearless efforts for the community, unwavering dedication, and kind spirit, Fremont Mayor Lily Mei, said in a touching speech during the festival: "I was a close and personal friend of Feda and Mu. I think there is no better way to honor Feda than to open up events like this and provide resources and information, which she always helped to do. No matter if it was through her legislative policy or her efforts, she strived not just for her own child but for multiple children."
Mayor Lily Mei giving a touching speech about Feda and Mu Almaliti
At the festival, there was a wide diaspora of booths, ranging from law enforcement to different resources that could help the disabled community, such as a legal agency that helps with housing issues. Josie Fulton who was heading the booth for equitable housing rights for the disabled said, "I am trying to reach the community and inform them of their fair care housing rights." She mentioned how disability-related rights and cases are among the largest cases and complaints received by the organization. A party planning vendor that organized events specially for people with disabilities and their families also had a booth. They offer budget friendly services and venues, and the organization hopes that every individual has the opportunity to fully indulge in celebrations. Fremont Mayor Lily Mei commented, "One of the fun, memorable moments [from the festival] is that I was lucky to get the opportunity to meet all these wonderful resource providers who I may not have known even as the mayor. It is hard for our community to be aware of all these resources, so when we provide a platform where it is clearly shown, it is truly such an amazing opportunity for families."
Anna Wang, a co-founder of FCSN and the current Vice Chair for Fremont's Human Relations Commission, reflected on her opportunity to plan the festival. She explained that the number of attendees this year was over double that of the previous year. "One goal of this festival is to [form] a connection between the disabled community and the first responders, including the police and fire department," she said. "Special needs individuals do not usually know what to do when they see law enforcement or in case of an emergency, they may be overwhelmed with fear." It was great to introduce the disabled community to the first responders in a fun and energizing way. For example, the police showcased one of their helper dogs and had an engaging booth with prizes. The firefighters also displayed their truck and were taking photos with participants as well as handing out plastic firefighter hats to visitors.
Local firefighters handing out hats to participants
In addition to rejoicing in the entertainment, many partakers at the fair wanted resources for loved ones and themselves. Meghan, a newcomer at the fair, said, " I wanted to come to this fair because I really wanted to find some resources that were being provided in my area for me," she said. "This fair provided great support in finding resources which made it a very rewarding and fun experience." Shubha Satyaprath, a mother of a special needs child and first-timer at the fair, explained that she, too, came here to find more information that she can utilize for her son. "I wanted to come here because my son has special needs, and I wanted to find some services and resources for him. So far we have had a lot of fun and have found some nice places for [my son]," she said.
Police chief and members of Fremont City council
Throughout the event there were a variety of activities to enjoy for children and adults alike. Entertaining participants, there was a magic show with a wide variety of tricks, a rendition of popular songs, including "Sweet Caroline," by the Dream Achievers band, and informative yet fun presentations from the Fremont Police as well as the Fremont Fire Department.
Participants chatting with local law enforcement.
The Disability Resource Festival provided resources and information to the people who need it. As the event came to an end, everyone went home with a smile on their face, assured by the abundance of resources available and heartwarmed by the supportive community gathered together that day.
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