Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, July 31, 2026 Mass. Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development visits MSYEP worksite Mayor celebrates Disability Pride Month MSYEP workers with MTEC Coordinator Cathy MacMullin (far left), Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones (left of Mayor), Mayor Gary Christenson (wearing tie) and MSYEP Coordinator Aaron Olapade (far right) Special to The Advocate T he City of Malden recently welcomed Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones for a visit to the Malden Summer Youth Employment Program (MSYEP), recognizing the program’s success in preparing young people for the workforce through meaningful employment opportunities. During the visit, Secretary Jones toured a community worksite and met with participants to hear firsthand about their experiences, the skills they have developed and their career goals. The visit highlighted the impact of youth employment programs in providing valuable workplace experience while strengthening the local community. MYSEP connects hundreds of young residents each summer with paid positions across municipal departments, nonprofit organizations, schools and local businesses. Through these experiences, participants develop professional skills, build confidence and explore career pathways. The City of Malden thanks Secretary Jones for recognizing the achievements of its youth and the worksite partners who make the program possible. Pictured from left to right: City Council President Amanda Linehan, Mayor Gary Christenson, Disability Commission Chair “Chuks Ezewuzie,” Malden Disability Commission Clerk/ADA Compliance Officer Maria Luise, Commissioner Lisa Picardi and Ward 5 Councillor Ari Taylor. (Courtesy photo) A t a recent ceremony hosted by the City of Malden’s Disability Commission, Mayor Gary Christenson recognized July as “Disability Pride Month” — celebrating the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The celebration showed Malden’s commitment to raise awareness, acknowledge rights and foster the empowerment of individuals with disabilities within the city. The event included a program led by the Chair of the Commission, Chukwuka “Chuks” Ezewuzie, who shared information about the meaning of Disability Pride Month and its importance to the community. The celebration also included a flag raising and refreshments following the flag raising. Disability Pride Month aims to create an atmosphere of understanding, support and respect for people of all abilities and also highlight their exceptional talents and achievements across all spheres of life. “I am truly grateful to Disability Commission Chair Chuks Ezewuzie for his continued advocacy and all the members of the Commission for their leadership in creating a more equitable and accessible city.” Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/ Advocate.news.ma
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