Film celebrates international disability holiday

LATISHA JENSEN, Evergreen life editor

A free movie showing at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Center is hosted by the Disability Action Center NW to celebrate International Day of People with Disabilities on Dec. 3.

The film is called, “Soul Surfer” and is about a teenage girl who has spent much of her life surfing, but while engaged in her natural talent, she loses an arm to a shark, according to a news release.

Although she is concerned about future troubles, she doesn’t give up her dream. She continues to surf and train for a competition, and she is able to go forward with the support of her parents.

Throughout the movie, she realizes a new purpose more important to her: She wants to make a difference in others’ lives, according to the release.

The event is free, but donations are appreciated and go toward the purchase of a portable stage lift to help reach ADA compliance at the Kenworthy and other locations. So far, they have raised a total of about $5,500.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the movie starts at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 in the Kenworthy Performing Arts Center. Attendees are encouraged to wear a Hawaiian-themed shirt, and the first 25 people through the door will receive a free pair of sunglasses.

Reporting by Latisha Jensen