I am writing to express my deep disappointment regarding the recent decision made by the Chamber of Commerce to exclude the County’s Board of Developmental Disabilities from participating in this year’s holiday parade. This action is not just a step backward in our efforts to promote inclusivity and equity, but it is also a disheartening message to individuals with disabilities, their families, and advocates.
For years, the Board of Developmental Disabilities has been a vital part of our community, working tirelessly to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, feels valued and included. Their presence in the parade not only highlights their contributions but also serves as a powerful reminder that our city embraces diversity and stands for accessibility and inclusion.
Removing the Board from the parade sends the wrong message — not just to individuals with disabilities, but to all residents. It suggests that their contributions are less meaningful or not as worthy of celebration, which contradicts the values our city has long claimed to uphold. Holiday parades should be about community and coming together, and this decision does the exact opposite by alienating an important — and all too frequently overlooked and marginalized — segment of our population.
I should note that perhaps motivated by some community concerns, the Chamber of Commerce did reconsider their position: Community organizations that did not make the “cut” to be in the parade could walk at the end of the parade behind Santa Claus. But do you know who also walks in the holiday parade after Santa? Trash collection. Because at that point, the parade is over. Could the Chamber of Commerce send a clearer message that only certain members of our community are valued while other groups — those who are often forgotten and discarded by society — are equal to trash? Shame on the Chamber of Commerce.
Our community must urge the Chamber of Commerce to reconsider their exclusion of the Board of Developmental Disabilities and to ensure that the parade is a reflection of all who call this city home. We must send a clear message to the Chamber of Commerce that people with developmental disabilities are a valued part of this community. By reinstating the Board of Developmental Disabilities in the parade, we can demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and celebrate the contributions of everyone who makes our community strong.
Nicholas C Mowen
Grand Rapids
