Launching Milo the Mime: A Celebration of Differences and Disabilities

Author Chas Chasler and Jeremy the Mime pose at the launch table of the Milo the Mime.

March is Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month. During JDAIM, we celebrate what makes each of us special and unique, no matter our individual abilities. Some get around differently, socialize differently, eat differently and communicate differently compared to others. The goal of this month is to highlight the differences among us and recognize each unique individual, ultimately, bringing diversity to communities and a sense of belonging for everyone.

The Jewish community gathered March 1 at Rodef Shalom Congregation to celebrate those with disabilities and host book readings. Various Pittsburgh organizations such as Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Comicsburgh, and others were in attendance to answer questions from guests and foster a deeper connection with the community.

Headlining the event was the launch for "Milo the Mime", by author and illustrator, Chas Chasler. The story exemplifies the values of JDAIM through the adventures depicted in the book. The story follows the main character, Milo, who does not speak but instead uses gesture and body language to communicate.

In writing the story, Chasler hopes that Milo's journey helps audiences have more compassion and understanding for those who may be different.

"That’s what we all need to do. We need to understand each other because we all have different ways of communicating," he said. "We didn't choose to communicate differently. Sometimes you’re just born that way, it just happens."

Series of "The abilities in me" written by Gemma Keir and illustrated by Adam Walker-Parker.

The gathering highlighted those of all ages, complete with a balloon animal station, fresh popcorn, and Eat-n-Park's famous smiley cookies depicting Milo the Mime. The main messages of the featured books taught about furthering inclusion and acceptance among intellectually challenged and disabled children. 7 authors appeared at the event, and some even gave readings of their stories to the audience throughout the day, which prompted a more intimate, deeper connection.

The audience heard inspiring and educational readings from Chas Chasler, author of Milo the Mime, Lenore Wossidlo, author of Kj's Autism, a Mother's Inspiration, Cristina Rouvalis & Lydia Wayman, authors of Snoopers and Sneakers, Sara Pyszka, author of Inside My Outside: An Independent Mind in a Dependent Body and the Just Be series, Sally Hobert Alexander, author of She Touched the World: Laura Bridgman, DeafBlind Pioneer, Joy Givens, author of The Unstoppable Jamie, and Ava Allenberg, featured in Ballerina on Wheels: Amazing Ava's First Dance.

The readings reminded the audience of the power they have within themselves to produce change and kindness in the world, while also highlighting the Golden Rule: Treat others the way you would like to be treated. This timeless sentiment prompts us to remember our individual impacts on the world and be a little kinder to our neighbors.

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