28 equal opportunity champs honored

Gov. Ralph DLG Torres proclaimed March 2021 as Developmental Disabilities Month yesterday afternoon with the theme “Disable the Label” at the Governor’s Office on Capital Hill.

Separately, the CNMI Disability Network Partners held an award ceremony at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan’s Hibiscus Hall yesterday to recognize what it calls the 2021 “Champions of Equal Opportunity.” In all, DNP recognized 28 advocates under different categories.

“This year, after overcoming many challenges such as COVID-19, the council and its partners would like to celebrate some outstanding individuals who truly embody what advocacy is all about. Today we honor the community members who dedicate their lives to helping and improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities,” said Pamela C. Sablan, executive director of the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities.

One of the awardees, Ronnie Calvo and his wife Lora Calvo, were presented with the Rota Family Advocate of the Year award.

Speaking later with Saipan Tribune, Ronnie Calvo, who said he himself is a parent of a child with a disability, said, “We should all recognize an individual’s ability and grant equal access because we are all equal. …The theme ‘Disable the Label’ is very important, and can help change the mindset of our society.”

UCEDD director Jennifer-Eilleen Castro also discussed the importance of this year’s theme “Disable the Label,” highlighting the importance of disabling the stereotypes that are often associated with people who have disabilities.

In her example, Castro said a person with autism may say, “Just because I have autism doesn’t automatically presume that you are better at math than I am. Just because I’m a female doesn’t mean you are better at planning than I am. I’m not a girl, I’m not a boy, I’m a human being.”

First lady Diann T. Torres, who gave welcoming remarks at the event, said, “Each and every one of us here have our strengths and weaknesses, and I stand by the slogan ‘Disable the Label,’ because in today’s society, we are all fighting for equal opportunity.”

The ceremony was led by master of ceremony Susan Satur, executive director of the Center for Living Independently in the CNMI and CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities board member.