A special event will be held in Carrickfergus next month celebrating the positive impact that those with learning disabilities have on our communities.
Learning Disability Pride will take place in the town on Saturday, June 24, as people with learning disabilities and their families come together for a day of fun and festivities.
The highlight of the event will be a carnival parade along the Marine Highway to Carrickfergus Castle, which will be led by BAFTA ,Oscar & IFTA winner James Martin, who has become an international star following his performance in short film An Irish Goodbye.
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The theme music for the day is 'Do Your Thing' by Basement Jaxx, with organisers encouraging attendees to "Do Your Thing for Learning Disability Pride".
This is the first Learning Disability Pride to take place since the end of the coronavirus>Covid Pandemic, with more than 7,000 attending the previous one in 2019.
It has been organised by a number of different organisations, which include: Carrickfergus Senior Gateway, Northern Health and Social Care Trust, Mencap NI, Caring Breaks, Sense, Kilcreggan Homes, Praxis Care, Positive Futures, AEL, The Cedar Foundation and My Community.
Speaking to Belfast Live, Thomas Haighton of Carrickfergus Senior Gateway, said: "We are very excited for the return of Learning Disability Pride and hope that it will be bigger than ever this year as we celebrate the wonderful contributions that people with learning disabilities bring to our communities and society.
"Thousands attended the first two events in 2017 and 2019, with people coming from across Northern Ireland to enjoy the day and we would like to see them all again this year.
"We are delighted that Oscar winner James Martin will be leading our carnival parade to Carrickfergus Castle to start the festivities, which will be followed by a family funday with music, games and a great array of food vendors.
"Learning Disability Pride sees a number of organisations across Northern Ireland come together to organise this and we are very thankful to everyone who has dedicated their time. We are also very thankful to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the National Lottery Community Fund for all of their support in helping us put on the day.
"We look forward to seeing everyone on June 24 as Learning Disability Pride makes its return after four years."
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