Arc Mercer Celebrates Pride Month with Inspiring Flag Raising and Community Unity

On June 6th, the Arc Mercer proudly celebrated Pride Month with a flag-raising ceremony outside of its headquarters in Ewing, NJ. Organized by the Team Atmosphere Committee’s S.N.A.P. group (Special Needs Alliance for Pride), the event brought together staff, consumers, leadership, and community allies to honor the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm Arc Mercer’s unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The ceremony opened with an address from Executive Director Steve Cook, who spoke on the agency’s values and longstanding dedication to equality. “Never wait until a holiday or an anniversary or a birthday to tell someone how meaningful they are to you,” Cook said, reminding all present that support and appreciation should be shown every day—not just on special occasions.

Cook reflected on his early days at the Arc Mercer 25 years ago, sharing that even then, the organization was a pioneer in inclusion—offering domestic partnership benefits well before it was common practice. Today, that spirit continues with the formation of S.N.A.P., the first group of its kind from any organization to specifically advocate for the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who identify as LGBTQ+.

Board Member Jeff Schulman echoed those sentiments, commending the Arc Mercer for its leadership in cultivating an inclusive environment. Schulman challenged attendees to take a stand against prejudice, saying, “Stand tall and say, ‘not on my watch.’”

With those powerful words, the group turned toward the flagpoles. The crowd stood for the national anthem, followed by the lowering of the American flag and the raising of the LGBTQ+ Pride flag—an emotional moment for many in attendance. Members of S.N.A.P. were joined by the event’s Guest of Honor, Mayor Reed Gusciora of Trenton, a longtime friend of the Arc Mercer and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

Following the flag-raising, S.N.A.P. members Theresa Wilson, Director of Training, and Lashana Deacon, Recreation Manager, stepped up to announce the group’s newest initiative: the S.N.A.P./LGBTQIA+ “Pay It Forward” Project.

The initiative aims to support local youth who live at the intersection of disability and LGBTQIA+ identity. “We’ve already begun initial outreach efforts, put out feelers to local school districts, and are actively forging early connections,” the group shared. “This is a call to action, friends and allies—join us as we anticipate expanding these efforts in September… to build sustainable partnerships and safe spaces for youth.”

“This work—this vision for inclusive, affirming spaces—doesn’t happen in isolation,” they continued. “It is built on the legacy of those who paved the way, spoken truth to power, and fought for justice long before it was widely accepted.”

Wilson then introduced the day’s keynote speaker, Mayor Reed Gusciora, a historic figure in New Jersey politics and the first openly gay man elected to the New Jersey General Assembly. “It is with that spirit that I now have the honor to introduce a true trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights and equality—someone who has led with courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”

In his keynote address, Mayor Gusciora shared words that resonated deeply with the crowd:

“As we celebrate Pride Month, we affirm our commitment, not only just as individuals, but as a community to the inclusivity, acceptance, and dignity of every person, no matter who they are or who they love.”

“[Arc Mercer] empowers each and every one of your consumers to be themselves, to live fully, to thrive with support, and to find pride in who they are.”

“[The S.N.A.P. Program] is not just a support system, it’s a space where LGBTQ+ consumers, including those who identify as gay, are embraced, respected, and can be who they are. You are helping build lives of possibility and purpose, and that makes Trenton stronger and Mercer County more compassionate and more just.”

After the ceremony, attendees gathered in Alice Garden behind the building for a celebratory BBQ and celebration—a fitting conclusion to a meaningful day.

Arc Mercer’s Pride Flag Raising was not just a moment to celebrate; it was a statement—a reflection of the agency’s commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of identity, has a place to belong, grow, and thrive.