Bronx Night Market and disability conference spotlight vendors, services and advocacy

Bronxnet’s Bronx updates included two community-focused reports: a profile of the Bronx Night Market and coverage of the 38th annual Bronx Individual and Family Support Conference.

Reporter Nova Banjamanti said the Bronx Night Market — running since 2017 — brings together food, culture and local resources, with vendors and attendees praising the event for uplifting smaller organizations and offering health screenings and community connections.

Shatrice McQueen reported on the disability conference, which gathered self-advocates, family members and service providers to call for more funding for early intervention services and other supports. Danielle Lanzetta, president of the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State, and Latavia Sturdavent, advocate and Miss Wheelchair America 2026, both spoke about the importance of investment and inclusive legislation. Sturdavent described personal impacts from underfunded medical equipment that limit daily mobility and professional activity. Speakers noted contractions in Medicaid funding and urged more comprehensive legislation to sustain staff and services.

Both reports highlighted community resources and avenues for engagement: the Night Market for local vendors and cultural exchange; the conference for advocacy and networking among disability-service providers and families.