The Superhero Project Celebrates #ADA30
“The ADA is the living testament to our nation’s commitment that we will always stand up for our neighbors’ right to live fulfilling lives.”
– Senator Tammy Duckworth
On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law, giving more than 50 million Americans the chance to define themselves by their potential – not their limitations. The ADA is a civil rights law that guarantees individuals with disabilities the same rights and opportunities as everyone else and prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. The Superhero Project Celebrates #ADA30 is a collection of posters created by youth with lifelong disabilities, both visible and invisible. Wheelchairs, AFOs, hearing aids and other adaptive equipment are proudly and joyfully included in these dynamic and diverse images.
Written & Narrated by Nikki Montgomery. Produced & Directed by Robert Walland.
Click a superhero to see their story!
Aqua Girl – Inspired by J. (age 11), Designed by Regina Flath. Together with her dolphin sidekick Papito, Aqua Girl is here to save the day! Using the power of her giant heart and beautiful spirit, she can communicate with all sea creatures (from the biggest whale to the smallest starfish) and keeps the waters healthy with one wave of her magic wand. Even more powerful is her smile, which brings happiness to everyone she meets! She is graceful and free underwater, swimming like a fish with her cape floating gently behind her. The oceans have never had a better friend than Aqua Girl!
Bio Man – Created by I. (age10), Designed by Meg Snyder. His camouflaged robot suit may help him blend into the forest, but there’s no hiding the power and charm of Bio Man. This superhero is on a quest to save animal habitats, end pollution and protect the environment. Bio Man is accompanied always by his faithful sidekicks: a hedgehog and a sloth. Don’t underestimate the wily ways of the hedgehog and the secret speed of the sloth! His high-tech visor lets him plot his course as he teleports to his exact destination using his glowing wristband. His coiled waistband and crampons allow him to stretch and climb to the top of the tree canopy, and the turquoise energy that emanates from his healing hands can bring any injured animal back to full strength in an instant. Bio Man is grateful to help – and the world is grateful for him!
Blue Warrior Mask Knight Rider – Created by A. (age 16), Designed by Andrew DeFelice. This superhero is so powerful that even his name is huge: Blue Warrior Mask Knight Rider! Clad in a blue armored suit that glows in the dark and wielding an icy-lightning sword, this is a man with a singular mission - rescuing damsels in distress. His sleek walker folds into his suit and B.W.M.K.R. unfurls his amazing wings to soar through the night sky when he hears a cry for help. His helmet, complete with a tinted visor and spiky mohawk, might look intimidating, but never fear - there’s a supertastic, sociable and charming soul underneath. “When it comes to girls,” he says, “I make a good impression.”
Drakester – Inspired by D. (age 9), Designed by Teagan Woodmansee. The newest superhero in town is Drakester, an incredible kid who embodies the power of hope! When people hear his origin story and see the obstacles he has overcome, they are truly inspired. Blessed with a happy spirit and motivated by his inner determination, Drakester travels the world, flying and teleporting to wherever he is needed. His magical water wand creates swimming pools and seas that allow people to swim and play with no limitations! How cool is that?
Electric Force – Created by R. (age 6), Designed by Josh Thompson. Feeling down? You won’t for much longer with this dynamo around! The Electric Force is an amazing superhero who makes people happy. As he travels from place to place on his super hyper-warp speed flying electric train, his magical hammer shoots out stickers that bring joy to all who receive them. There is no force that Electric Force can’t beat!
Everyone’s Favorite – Inspired by A. (age 6), Designed by Marietta Williams. With determination and a positive spirit, Everyone's Favorite inspires people to find happiness. He flies through the skies in his amazing wheelchair, with a communication device close at hand and walking sticks that share his courage and strength with all who need them. He loves making friends, which explains his fabulous name. Everyone's Favorite is always in a good mood, able to bounce back from every obstacle in his path. With faith and a great attitude, this small superhero is making a giant difference in the world!
Exceptional Everly – Inspired by E. (age 5), Designed by Charlie Ngo. Exceptional Everly is just awesome! This superhero raises awareness for Rett Syndrome and is an advocate for other kids. She inspires everyone she meets with her positive spirit, her strength and fortitude, and her willingness to try new things every day. She flies with butterfly wings on her AFOs around the world, with magical cards on her belt that she shares with people. Each card helps people understand what Rett Syndrome is and inspires them to care about this rare disease. As charming as Peppa Pig and as adventurous as Dora the Explorer, Exceptional Everly beautifully communicates her acceptance of all people with eye contact, a warm laugh and a little wiggle dance. Her other super power? Her ability to make everyone smile
Forever Emily: Joyful Destroyer of Worlds – Inspired by E. (age 8), Designed by Taryn Cozzy. Forever Emily carries the power of the whirlwind, the beauty of nature's branches and the spirit of the stars everywhere she goes. This Sanfilippo fighter & heart warrior inspires all who meet her with her energy and loving soul. Although she can clear a shelf at Target in seconds, she's a character you simply must adore. Forever Emily has a collection of water pails that she uses to summon whirlwinds that bring strength to the people around her. She stands for survival; running, climbing and jumping through the night in her sparkly sneakers, free to move and to live in love.
Gabby Abby – Inspired by G. (age 6), Designed by Marie Caissie-Parsons. Meet Gabby Abby, the cute and bubbly superhero who is spreading awareness of Rett Syndrome and inspiring people to support the search for a cure! Backed by a loving family who knows they can always find a way to do things and propelled by her determination, Gabby Abby expresses herself even without words. She's as colorful and cheery as a purple pumpkin patch, always with a matching bow. Gabby Abby speeds from place to place in her own pink jeep, tossing blossoms to everyone she passes - they help folks learn about Rett Syndrome and they make smiles bloom on every face!
Harper Strong & Smiley Rylee – Created by R. (age 8), Inspired by H. (age 1½), Designed by John Dellomes. Nothing will stop this incredible dynamic duo – these sweet sisters inspire all who meet them to be strong for each other! Harper Strong and Smiley Rylee each carry Confidence Wands, giving everyone who sees the sparkling stars exactly what they need to be brave.Smiley Rylee has a music box on her tool belt to play music videos so people can dance and have fun. Harper Strong zooms through the air, binky close at hand, with happiness glitter to bring smiles to the faces of everyone she meets. You’ll never forget meeting these amazing girls – the resilience, determination and strength of Harper and the compassion, love and caring of Rylee.
Honey Badger – Created by J. (age 7), Designed by Melissa Cho. Who’s that smiling superhero flying by with sparkles streaming past? She's none other than the radiant and beaming Honey Badger! This adorable grinning gal will sign her way right into your heart. She travels around the world with trusty sidekick Pooh Bear and a cloud of beautiful butterfly friends. They fly to people in need, carrying hope on their delicate wings. Honey Badger is joyful and fun – as much fun as a school bus ride! More than anything, she loves making people happy! Honey Badger even has secret ice powers that came from her magical chocolate ice cream cone. If you ask her politely, maybe she’ll tell you the story! From the tips of her toes to the top of her messy bun, Honey Badger is just delightful, and she's as determined as the toughest superhero around!
Invincible Inaya – Inspired by I. (age 5), Designed by Ana Gusson. Hope, faith, and patience – those are just some of the wonderful qualities that the Invincible Inaya inspires in us! The bright and bubbly Invincible Inaya wears her heart on her sleeve and in her magic guitar wand, and she’s got plenty of love to share. With one sweeping wave, she sprinkles oodles of goodness into the world. Invincible Inaya is determined to make her way around the world one step at a time, with her loving family right behind her every inch of the way. With her wonderful smile and comforting cuddles, only the stars are the limit for this little lady!
I-Robot 6 – Created by J. (age 13), Designed by Eric Angel Pabon. There’s never been a superhero as caring and kind as I-Robot 6! He knows how lonely it can be for kids struggling with mental illnesses or stuck in a hospital room, and he’s invented the perfect cure. He dispatches his fleet of personal health care companions to any child who needs help and is looking for someone to play with. I-Robot 6 has developed supersonic hearing amplified through his one-of-a-kind BAHAs that are connected to the personal operating system in his electrified suit. He can hear anyone who calls for him and heads out immediately, traveling through space and time in his magical Otis elevator. This smart vehicle operates on voice commands with no pesky buttons to push. His adorable army of health care companions are equipped with everyone's favorite songs, silly jokes and stories, and the answers to every question. I-Robot 6’s warm and joyful spirit inspires everyone who meets him – he reminds us to take our time as we walk through the world and to have compassion for everyone we meet!
JAC-MAN – Inspired by J. (age 7), Designed by Robert Walland. With tremendous strength, courage, wisdom and confidence, JAC-MAN is an inspiration to all who meet him. Clutching his golden maraca, this young hero uses his supersonic hearing to direct his sleek wheelchair as he travels through Cleveland, raising awareness of hydrocephalus and proving that heroes come in all ages and abilities. His soaring cape, tool belt and boots are all he needs – along with the powerful love of his parents, brothers and sister.
King Kyle – Inspired by K. (age 4), Designed by Eric Angel Pabon. With a joy as giant as a Wiggles hit song and the brightest sweetest smile you’ve ever seen, King Kyle is a young superhero on a serious mission! He reminds us all that acceptance and inclusion are incredibly important, and that you never know what people can do with a little determination and a lot of love. He inspires admiration for his accomplishments, and he’s helped along the way by loyal canine sidekicks Annie & Fergus. Soaring high through the sky, King Kyle waves his royal rainbow scepter to brighten the days of everyone who sees him. No superhero has ever been this popular – it takes him twenty minutes just to cross the street through his crowd of well-wishers! King Kyle teaches us all to love life and to live in the moment.
Kourageous Kylin – Created by K. (age 4), Designed by Joshua Lusby. With just one flash of his super smile, Kourageous Kylin lights up the world around him. He stands for joy and for exceeding all expectations. With a peek through his Ultra glasses, Kylin and his awesome sidekick find those in need and make their way to them in his monster truck. They spread strength with glowing balls of energy. Kourageous Kylin makes a difference by inspiring us with his hope and kindness.
Mr. Incredible – Inspired by E. (age 8), Designed by Roscoe Rappaport. With a vibrant personality and a smile that lights up the room, Mr. Incredible is fighting for equality! This super strong and fearless hero believes that everyone should be treated equally, regardless of their background or abilities. Mr. Incredible is stylish and charming, zooming through the world in his champagne gold Mustang power chair with a built-in boom box to blast classic tunes. His amazing rainbow nunchucks throw sparkles in the air that land on people and inspire them to be brave. A heartbreaker with beautiful blue eyes, Mr. Incredible is tough as nails and joyfully spreads an important message - treat everyone with kindness and smile more!
Punchkie Powers – Inspired by L. (age 5), Designed by Muffy Levy. If you’re looking for a superhero who knows how to cuddle, whose smile lights up a room, and who is very chill - look no further! Punchkie Powers is here! This amazing and adorable hero spreads love around the world. Accompanied by his best friend and trusty sidekick Scout, he soars through the sky in his flying wheelchair with love hearts shooting out behind. Punchkie Powers sports his beloved Chicago Cubs cap to finish off his superhero outift, complete with galaxy AFOs and a heart button that allows easy access for his energy tubes. Punchkie Powers may be quiet, but he’s going to roll right into your heart.
Quad Squad – Created & inspired by 19 year old quadruplets, Designed by Eric Pabon. Move over, Fantastic Four – the Quad Squad has arrived! United as a family by their fierce determination and their strong spirits, this happy band of heroes is out to save the world in style. Whether flying or zipping along in their powerful wheelchairs, they share their unique gifts in very special ways. Thanks, Quad Squad, for all you do to make this world a better place! Brittany stands for creativity! Her mystical camera takes pictures that reveal everyone’s best selves – their most innovative, compassionate and clever ideas come to life in her photographs. Brandon stands for independence! His sense of adventure reminds all of us that we can do anything we put our minds to. His radio blasts beautiful music everywhere he flies, spreading courage with every note. Brianna stands for inspiration! Her magical purse produces whatever object people need from its depths, but – even more importantly – her beautiful smile touches the soul of all who meet her. Bradley stands for joy! This guardian angel radiates pure love, ready for a game of football or a giant hug to make people smile. Even without words, this social butterfly lights up every room he enters, making people feel wonderful. Bam!
Rhiannon Rocks Rainbow – Created by A. (age 15), Designed by Hilary MacDonald. This powerhouse beauty is here to help those people who can’t help themselves! Meet Rhiannon Rocks Rainbow, whose colorful outfit matches her creative approach to the world. Her unique wisdom inspires all who meet her when she emerges from her secret Bahama Breeze hideout. She flies through the skies on incredible sugar glider wings, accompanied always by her special sidekick Eevee. She carries healing crystals disguised as fidget spinners – once you twirl them, you’re cured! Rhiannon Rocks Rainbow uses her glowing Poke-ball to blast away any obstacles in her path. No question about it – this wonderful walking rainbow will dance her way right into your heart!
Sass – Inspired by A. (age 4), Designed by Taryn Cozzy. She’s small, but mighty. She has a bubbly laugh and a fierce eye roll. This fun-sized superhero is all Sass! Fighting to make sure that everyone is included, no matter what special needs they have, Sass wields a magic wand and is accompanied by two unique sidekicks as she soars through her stars in her flying wheelchair. With baby doll Courtney on her right and a cute croaking frog on her left, she’s ready for anything. Nothing makes her happier than being around others, and whenever she thinks of loved ones lost, a beautiful rainbow appears in the sky. Thanks, Sass, for making our world a more inspiring and inclusive place to be!
Super Boo – Created by N. (age 8), Designed by Rox D’Arpa. Flying through the air with sidekick Gorgeous is a beautiful hero, Super Boo! This courageous and quirky kid carries stickers and cards that teach people about autism and help them understand that everyone deserves acceptance. This smart sweetheart also uses the power of numbers and a magic calculator to solve whatever puzzles she encounters. With a future as bright as a rainbow and a special style all her own, Super Boo reminds us that being different is super cool.
Super Heart – Inspired by A. (age 3), Designed by Siobhan McKenna. Super Heart is one of the most loving, courageous and caring superheroes in the land, always looking after and treasuring her family and friends. Despite being small in size, Super Heart has one of the biggest hearts you can imagine. When she’s not dancing or singing, she can be seen flying through the skies leaving her iconic trail of hearts wherever she goes. With her tremendous sense of empathy and positive attitude, Super Heart brings hope to Downs families everywhere!
Super Logan – Inspired by L. (age 3), Designed by Marietta Williams. Super Logan is adorable, energetic and loving - and he is bringing happiness to the world! Accompanied always by his trio of loyal sidekicks, Super Logan zooms through the sky with his long cane, a lightsaber, and his magical computer with integrated braille keys, whose music makes everyone joyful. Always echoing from the sky as he travels by is his amazing motto: I am strong! I am brave!
Super Sethie – Inspired by S. (age 5), Designed by Josseline Tanus. Super Sethie is a sweet, determined and outgoing guy, and he's inspiring everyone he encounters! There are no strangers in Super Sethie's world – just friends he hasn’t met yet. His magic stick, emblazoned with Down Syndrome arrows, helps people stay strong and reach their goals. He flies around the world to wherever he's needed, with lightning energy glowing around him. This courageous cutie communicates without words, using his smile and sign language to make sure everyone understands his caring heart and fun-loving attitude. This superhero is ready for anything – digging for worms, sliding into home plate, or exploring the woods. More than anything, Super Sethie is a total fighter, pushing past people's expectations and making the world a better place!
Super Teddie – Created by E. (age 13), Designed by Mischi G. Gliding in on his sleek computer-controlled chair is the amazing Super Teddie. This courageous kid is bringing hope to the world with his smiles, laughter and determination in the face of every challenge. Your spirit will take wing when you hear echoes from his silver duck call, which whistles forth an adorable army of rubber ducks that make people happy. Super Teddie’s golden blade cuts through any obstacles in his path, and the image of sidekick Hershey on his uniform is a symbol of the loyalty his pup displays every day. He zooms around at the speed of lightning with the strength of thunder. No quacking around, Super Teddie is super cool!
Super ZeeZee – Inspired by Z. (age 10), Designed by Alyssa Winans. Beautiful Super ZeeZee is spreading joy to the world with laughter and giggles! She makes people happy with her giant smile and loving heart. This young superhero has always defied the odds, doing more than anyone thought possible. Now she spreads that positive attitude with a magic mirror that amplifies her sweet spirit and shares it will all who meet her!
Tornado Kiki – Inspired by V. (age 3), Designed by Josh Thompson. The mighty energy of this young superhero inspired her name – Tornado Kiki! This firecracker inspires hope and empathy in others, recognizing when people are sad and reaching out with love and compassion. She makes everyone around her happy, just by being her glorious unique self. No previous protocol to follow? No problem! Accompanied by her stalwart sidekick (and big sister), Tornado Kiki is blazing her own path through the world, ready for whatever challenges life throws her way.
Will Power – Inspired by W. (age 9), Designed by Sarah Chalek. With a smile that never quits and a heart that’s never met a stranger, Will Power inspires people to never give up and to be thankful for the blessings we have – big blessings like love and family, and little blessings like the perfect slice of peach pie. He runs with lightning speed to wherever he's needed and doesn’t let a locked door stop him. His magic keys give him the power to enter (or to escape!) any room in the universe. Will Power is happy to meet people, help them and make them smile – the world needs more superheroes with the power to connect people like he does!
Zakhawk Moon – Inspired by Z. (age 4), Designed by Mike Thomas. You may not have heard of "advocacy through adorableness" before, but Zakhawk Moon is here to make you a believer! This extraordinary superkid is ready to advocate for himself and others just like him, reminding us all to include everyone, no matter what their differences are. Zakhawk Moon radiates joyous strength as he flies through the night on the back of his mighty sidekick, Harvey. The blue, yellow and grey of his outfit represent the Down Syndrome and diabetes communities, and he uses his cell phone to create videos that raise awareness and highlight the stories of kids around the world. His CGM keeps his energy steady and makes this rough and rowdy boy ready to rock!
A Note About the Exhibit
To preserve confidentiality, the title card for each poster indicates the child’s first initial and age only. “Created by” means that the interview questions were answered by the child. “Inspired by” means that the child is either non-verbal or too young to answer questions; in those cases, parents, grandparents or siblings answered the interview questions for our superheroes.