Town of Putnam and The Arc Eastern CT to Unveil "Voices of Inclusion" May 2

The Town of Putnam, in partnership with The Arc Eastern Connecticut, will unveil Voices of Inclusion: Words That Unite, a new, reflective walking journey designed to celebrate diversity, foster dialogue, and promote inclusion within the community.

The unveiling will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Rotary Park in Putnam and will coincide with Quiet Corner Pride Day. The event is free and open to the public, with special guests and VIPs joining community members for the celebration.

Voices of Inclusion features a curated series of inspirational quotes displayed on existing storyboards along the Putnam River Trail. Installed at regular intervals, the quotes form a thoughtful walking experience encouraging reflection on belonging, respect, and how individuals and communities embrace people of all abilities.

Jamie Lazaroff, self-advocacy coordinator for The Arc ECT, and his late mother Dawn shared a vision for the project. After she passed, he honored her memory by guiding the project from inspiration to fruition. Putnam was chosen for the installation due to its reputation as a welcoming, inclusive community and the prominence of the River Trail as a well-traveled public space in Northeast Connecticut. Organizers hope the artwork will spark conversation while enhancing the natural beauty of the trail.

The project received approvals from the Mayor’s Office, Recreation Commission, Library Board, and Economic Development Commission, with fabrication support provided by Killingly Metal Fabrication. Funding is provided entirely by an anonymous private donor, with support from The Arc Eastern Connecticut.

About The Arc Eastern Connecticut:

The Arc Eastern Connecticut is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting people with IDD in the communities of eastern Connecticut. Since its founding in 1952, the Agency has promoted inclusion, independence, and quality of life for people with IDD through advocacy, education, and community-based services. To learn more, please visit TheArcECT.org.