December 3rd is International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Independent Living Center Celebrates Persons with Disabilities at the Frist Center

Empower TN, formerly The Center for Independent Living of Middle TN, is proudly partnering with the Frist Center on Thursday, December 3 to offer a free day for the public in honor of International Day of Persons with Disabilities’ Inclusion Matters: Access and Empowerment of People with All Abilities.

For nearly 25 years, The Center for Independent Living of Middle TN has been dedicated to the Empowerment of all by advancing independence within the disability community. It is for this reason, that they have chosen this day, and this theme to introduce their new name and brand: Empower TN.

Empower TN is Middle Tennessee’s Center for Independent Living. The previous values, goals and dedication remain unchanged. Their overall vision is to cultivate a barrier-free community where people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.

Empower TN will have a presence at the Frist Center from 10:00 a.m–8:00 p.m to showcase Independent Living for individuals with disabilities and answer questions from the community. The Frist is a fully accessible building for all patrons. A sign language interpreter will be available for the 1:30 p.m. tour and for activities until 4:00 p.m. Braille work of some of the exhibits will also be showcased and available for patrons with visual impairments.

A reception for Community Partners will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Frist Center's Grand Lobby with light refreshments being served. A presentation will begin at 3:00 p.m., including remarks from Mayor Megan Barry. For additional information, contact Brandon Brown or Heidi Oechsel of Empower TN at (615) 292-5803, or Emily Harper Beard of the Frist Center at ebeard@fristcenter.org.

LGBT Chamber Executive Director, Lisa Howe, has joined the advisory board for Access Music City, a program dedicated to making Nashville's restaurants, entertainment, and transportation accessible to all citizens. "I am excited to work with Empower TN and the advisory board in making sure Nashville is an inclusive city for all," said Howe. "I believe our members will be receptive to and on board with the program."