Mental Illness Awareness 'Mad Pride' ... Gyeongnam Disability Groups Advocate for Positive 'Mad Presence'

The 3rd 'Mad Pride' Gyeongnam event was held in front of Jungwoo Shopping Center in Seongsan-gu, Changwon, on May 22, two days before World Schizophrenia Day.

Mad Pride, which began in Canada in 1993, is a combination of the English words 'Mad' and 'Pride,' and is interpreted to mean 'mad presence.'

Participants of the 3rd 'Mad Pride' Gyeongnam event are holding a walking parade around Changwon Square. Photo by Lee Seryung

The term 'mad,' which is typically used with a negative connotation to refer to mental illness, is redefined in this context to improve perceptions of mental illness and to strengthen the rights of those affected.

Twenty-two disability organizations in the Gyeongnam region, including the Gyeongnam Center for Independent Living for People with Mental Disabilities, held the event under the theme 'Crazy for Freedom! Into the Community, Not Institutions!' The participants marched on foot around the square in front of Changwon City Hall.

The organizations explained, "Schizophrenia means 'to tune the strings of a stringed instrument.' It refers to a disorder in which the nervous system of the brain or the mind is not properly regulated, causing brain function problems, but treatment can restore balance to the nervous system and the mind."

Participants of the 3rd 'Mad Pride' Gyeongnam event are waving colorful balloons. Photo by Lee Seryung

At the head of the parade were the Mad Pride banner, a bed, and a wheelchair. After the march, participants gathered at Jungwoo Shopping Center, blowing and waving colorful balloons and taking photos and videos to conclude the event.

On this day, the organizations emphasized, "We reject distorted views and social stigma regarding mental illness and mental disabilities, and declare that everyone has the right to live with dignity."