ReelAbilities Disabilities Film Festival Changes Perceptions of Disability in N.J.
For the first time, the national ReelAbilities Disabilities Film Festival came to New Jersey. From March 13 to March 17, thousands visited locations around Essex, Union, Hudson, and Somerset counties to view international award-winning films about the lives, obstacles, and accomplishments of individuals with disabilities. Kessler Foundation was a major sponsor of the Reelabilities NJ Disabilities Film Festival.
“At Kessler Foundation, we change the lives of people with disabilities through our rehabilitation research and our funding of disability employment initiatives,” said Rodger DeRose, president and chief executive officer of Kessler Foundation. “Our aim in bringing the ReelAbilities Festival to New Jersey is to not only promote the abilities of people with disabilities, but also to recognize that we all can relate to the characters in the films. We all have the need to be accepted and appreciated for our skills.”
Joseph Amoroso, Director of the New Jersey Division of Disability Services, attended many of the festival’s offerings. “ReelAbilities is significant because it shapes a perspective and image of disability not often shown in mainstream media,” he said. “Disability is but a variation on the human condition. The films underscore that individuals with significant disabilities can prosper, thrive and attain self-fulfillment.”
Film screenings were followed by special performances and discussions relating to the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. On opening night at Kean University, children from Shining Stars—a N.J. performance group for youth with disabilities—danced to Michael Jackson and the Black Eyed Peas. The performance complemented the Swedish film, The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes, about a group of individuals with cognitive disabilities who were considered incapable of participating in community activities. When given the opportunity and encouragement, however, they excelled as singers and performers.
More than 55 million Americans have disabilities, but only 21 percent are employed. “It all starts with the expectation that someone with a disability can and will work,” explained Mr. Amoroso. “I believe individuals with disabilities need to have the same expectations as their non-disabled peers. You need to shape expectations first and then provide tools and support. Employment means equality. ReelAbilities shows how people can embrace their disabilities and contribute to society.”
Under Governor Christie, N.J. became the fourteenth ‘EmploymentFirst’ state, meaning that competitive employment is the first and preferred post-education activity for everyone, including people with disabilities. Since 2005, Kessler Foundation has distributed more than $27 million in funding for innovative disability employment initiatives across the country.
About Kessler Foundation
Kessler Foundation, a major nonprofit organization in the field of disability, is a global leader in rehabilitation research that seeks to improve cognition, mobility and long-term outcomes, including employment, for people with neurological disabilities caused by diseases and injuries of the brain and spinal cord. Kessler Foundation leads the nation in funding innovative programs that expand opportunities for employment for people with disabilities.
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Contacts:
Lauren Scrivo, 973.324.8384, 973.768.6583 - c, [email protected]
Carolann Murphy, 973.324.8382, [email protected]
