Sing-Sign-Along Spreads Holiday Joy At Long Island MacArthur Airport

RONKONKOMA, NY — The Islip Town Disability Advisory Board recently joined with The Music Academy for Special Learners and Suffolk Independent Living Organization for the first Winter Holiday Sing-Sign-Along Concert at Long Island MacArthur Airport to spread holiday cheer.

The event blended the sound of music and American Sign Language to connect people with differing abilities, town officials said.

Councilman James O’Connor, who chairs the Disability Advisory Board, said "inclusivity and representation are the cornerstones of effective advocacy, especially for under-served groups, such as the deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired community."

“This is why events such as these are important — because it is welcoming for all," he said. "I am grateful to our partners at The Music Academy for Special Learners for filling the airport’s Main Concourse with holiday songs, along with our friends at Suffolk Independent Living Organization for providing American Sign Language interpreters at the Winter Holiday Sing-Sign-Along Concert."

Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter noted that joy can be found in song.

“There is perhaps no greater catalyst for bringing people together than the musical experience," she said. "Who doesn’t have fond holiday memories anchored by the songs of the season?"

"This sing-sign-along, and events like it, broadens the opportunity for all to join in the festive fun, and ensures fond memories will be created by many more," she said. "We were happy to host many musical groups at the airport this holiday season."

Also in attendance alongside Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter and Councilman James O’Connor, was Long Island MacArthur Airport Commissioner Shelley LaRose-Arken.