On Saturday, July 11, 2026, Calling Up Justice joined the Center for Independent Living (CIL) Disability & Trans/Queer Pride Celebration in Berkeley for an afternoon of performances, art, storytelling, music, and community connection. The gathering celebrated disability justice, queer and trans creativity, collective care, and the joy of being together in an accessible, COVID-safer space.
Calling Up Justice tabled with our Art Power Liberation art book, free PPE, and WHY MASK materials, inviting community members to explore our creative projects and participate in interactive digital art experiences. Claudia Alick and Maya Alford-Hill set up the table, with Kameya and Lotus joining later to connect with attendees. Audiences enjoyed learning about Calling Up Justice activities, exploring our digital projects, and discovering opportunities to participate in our ongoing artistic and disability justice work. Claudia and the interns also visited other community tables, made art, built relationships, and spent time networking with fellow artists, advocates, and organizations.
We had a great time connecting with community, getting mask chains, reading zines, getting mask chains, and participating in the open mic. One of the highlights of the afternoon was a fabulous and accessible performance by King Lotus Boy, bringing artistry, humor, and queer joy to the celebration. The event also featured MC and performer Obsidienne Obsurd, music by DJ Fugwel, adaptive mobility demonstrations, community artmaking, storytelling, and opportunities for connection. With required masking, free PPE, and a low-sensory space, the gathering demonstrated how accessibility can be integrated into a vibrant and welcoming Pride celebration.
We loved being part of this joyful gathering of disabled, trans, and queer communities. Events like this remind us that disability culture is creative, interconnected, and full of possibility. We were grateful for the opportunity to share our work, support fellow artists, strengthen community relationships, and celebrate Pride together!
