GARWOOD — Bret Fleming, a singer/songwriter and drummer with William’s Syndrome from Westfield, released the single “The Bridge of Inclusion” which is an anthem for inclusion for people with or without disabilities on May 31.
The song is for anyone who feels any form of discrimination because of their differences.
“The instrumental consists of world music,” Mr. Fleming said. “When I hear the lyrics with the instrumental, I think of Michael Jackson and songs like Earth Song, We Are the World, and They Don’t Care About Us. We are all human beings, and instead of focusing on judging or mistreating each other, we should be focusing on ourselves and the things we can do to make the world a better place.”
After the song was completed, Bret and his producer shot the music video in downtown Garwood, NJ Train Station.
Mr. Fleming’s musical journey began at the age of two years old when his aunt Helen bought him his first snare drum. Since then, Mr. Fleming has been drumming away.
After a visit with a pediatric neurologist, the neurologist sent Mr. Fleming to a geneticist to confirm his suspect diagnosis of William’s Syndrome. Two of the characteristics of William’s Syndrome include having a very positive outlook on life and an affinity for music. There were other physical and intellectual characteristics that confirmed the diagnosis, but those two particular characteristics describe Mr. Fleming perfectly. Instead of viewing his diagnosis as a “disability”, his love of music, people and life have become his superpower.
Mr. Fleming’s diagnosis ofWilliam’s Syndrome provided his mother and father, Lea and Tom Fleming with a new perspective. They have also been on the front lines of the battle for inclusion, since Mr. Fleming was a child.
This battle even ended up in court prior to Mr. Fleming’s High School Graduation. In New Jersey, people with developmental disabilities have until the age of 21 to finish their high school diploma. Mr. Fleming was intent on completing his high school diploma requirements in MA at the Berkshire Hills Music Academy. He wanted to participate in the graduation ceremonies with his peers. Westfield High School did not want him to participate in the graduation without receiving a diploma. In court, the judge ruled in Mr. Fleming’s favor, and he was allowed to participate in his high school’s graduation ceremonies.
This event was one of his many victories for his battle for inclusion. This paved the way for all students with disabilities to participate in their Graduation Ceremony in New Jersey without receiving a diploma and to continue their transition to another program to complete their High School Diploma Studies.
During Mr. Fleming’s time at Berkshire Hills Music Academy, he found his passion for singing, songwriting, and percussion. He earned a State Endorsed NJ High School diploma and a Certificate of Completion in Music.
In 2002, during his time at Berkshire, Mr. Fleming also joined the global non-profit organization Best Buddies International, whose mission is Inclusion for people with developmental disabilities. Today, Mr. Fleming is an Alumni Global Ambassador for Best Buddies and an Advisory Board Member of Best Buddies New Jersey.
Mr. Fleming released his first full length LP entitled “Life” in 2016 with his then music mentor,Aaron Pearson. The album is very personal and highlights his journey and fight for inclusion. Some highlights from the album are: Celebrate Life, One Nation and Monster, which are still available on all major streaming platforms.
Check out Bret Fleming’s social medias: facebook.com/ bretflemingmusic, instagram.com/ bretflemmusic, youtube.com/ @bretflemmusic.
