01/09/2026
Please join CSNI as we gather alongside ABLE NH and People First of NH to remember those in our community who have passed away. Every life deserves respect, dignity, and safety - no matter what. Northern Human Services PathWays NH Lakes Region Community Services Community Bridges Monadnock Developmental Services Gateways Community Services The Moore Center One Sky Community Services Community Partners NH Community Crossroads
🕯️ Lights for Dignity: Candlelight Vigil 🕯️
Shine a light for justice
ABLE NH and People First of NH invite you to join us for a candlelight vigil at the NH Statehouse.
📅 January 17
⏰ 4:30–5:00 PM
📍 NH Statehouse
Reporting by the NH Bulletin has brought forward painful truths about abuse, neglect, and loss within New Hampshire’s developmental disability system. These are not just stories. Stephen and Christine were real people. They had names, families, and lives that mattered.
We will light candles to honor those who have passed away and to stand with people who are still at risk of being neglected or abused. This vigil is a time to come together, to grieve together, and to say clearly that dignity, safety, and belonging are not optional.
Disability is not the problem. The problem is systems that fail to protect people and communities that do not always see what is happening. People with disabilities are leaders, neighbors, and valued members of our communities. Being supported does not make someone less than. And anyone can become disabled at any time in life.
We also stand with the disability support workforce. Direct Support Professionals and others who provide care deserve respect, strong training, fair pay, and real career paths. These are not “warm bodies.” They are people with warm hearts doing critical work.
This vigil is also a call to action. Silence allows harm to continue. Connection keeps people safer. Advocacy matters. Nothing about us without us.
Please join us as we shine a light for dignity, remembrance, and change.
🕯️ Organized by People First of NH and ABLE NH