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Writer's pictureToby Overstreet
Jul 85 min read

Embracing Disability Pride: Celebrating Inclusion and Empowerment

The History of Disability Pride Month


Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate people with disabilities. It happens every July and lets us recognize their contributions and achievements. It also helps raise awareness about the challenges they face.

This month celebrates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), passed on July 26, 1990. The ADA is an important law that stops discrimination against people with disabilities in public places, such as jobs, schools, and transportation.


This July marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark law that shattered barriers to inclusion for people with disabilities. The ADA makes sure people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. It has helped make society more inclusive and accessible.


Disability Pride Month reminds us to keep working for true equality and to support the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.

 
 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four people in the United States has a disability. This can include many types of physical, mental, and emotional challenges. This shows how common disabilities are in the general population.


Right now, 85% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) don't have jobs. Many want to work and have skills to offer. On average, those with jobs work less than 13 hours a week, and less than 20% get workplace benefits.


These statistics highlight the significant barriers that people with disabilities continue to face in the workforce and underscore the need for greater advocacy and support.


What is Ableism?


Ableism is discrimination against people with disabilities. It comes from the belief that typical abilities are better. This harmful thinking can show up in many ways, including how people act, how society behaves, and rules that limit what people with disabilities can do.

Ableism is about seeing people with disabilities as less capable or less valuable than others. This can result in many negative outcomes, from small, everyday slights to clear discrimination and unfair systems.


For example, ableism can be seen in workplaces that don’t provide needed support, schools that aren’t inclusive, and public places that aren’t accessible. It can also happen in daily interactions, where wrong ideas about disabilities lead to patronizing behavior or exclusion.


To address ableism, individuals and groups must recognize and challenge these unfair beliefs and actions. This includes supporting inclusive policies, making all areas of life accessible, and promoting respect and fairness for people with disabilities. By doing this, we can build a more inclusive society that values everyone, no matter their abilities.

That is why we need more awareness, accessibility, and support for those with disabilities.


Drum... drum... this year’s theme is...


This year’s theme for Disability Pride Month is “We Want a Life Like Yours.” The theme comes from The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates. This strong message reflects the disability community's wish for life experiences they often miss out on. It also highlights the need for equality and the right for people with disabilities to have the same chances, freedoms, and quality of life as everyone else. It calls for recognition, respect, and removing barriers that stop full participation in society.


By embracing this theme, we remember the importance of advocating for inclusivity and making sure everyone, no matter their abilities, can enjoy a fulfilling life.


Celebrating the Journey and Achievements of the Disability Community


The first Disability Pride Day happened in Boston in 1990. This was a big moment for disability rights because it was the same year the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. The ADA was important for protecting the rights of people with disabilities and helping them fully participate in society.


The first Disability Pride Parade was in Chicago in 2004. This was a big step in the awareness of disability rights. It highlighted the need for inclusivity and celebrated the different experiences of people with disabilities. This parade paved the way for more events that promote pride and community among disabled people.


Since that first event, many cities in the U.S. have held Disability Pride events every year. These events aim to raise awareness about disability issues and to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities. Disability Pride events include parades, workshops, and cultural activities, allowing people with disabilities to share their stories, advocate for their rights, and build a sense of community.

 
 

Why Celebrate Disability Pride Month?


Disability Pride Month serves several important purposes:


  1. Raising Awareness: It highlights the problems faced by people with disabilities and the need for accessibility and inclusion.

  2. Celebrating Diversity: It recognizes the different experiences within the disability community, promoting pride and belonging.

  3. Challenging Stigma: Celebrating Disability Pride helps change negative views and misunderstandings about disabilities.

  4. Empowerment: It gives people with disabilities a chance to be proud of who they are and stand up for their rights.


The Importance of Allyship


Allyship helps advance the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Allies can be individuals or organizations that support and advocate for the disability community. Here are some ways to be an effective ally:


  1. Listen and Learn: Take time to listen to people with disabilities. Understand their experiences and challenges without making assumptions.

  2. Challenge Ableism: Speak out against ableism whenever you see it. This includes challenging discriminatory behavior, language, and policies.

  3. Promote Accessibility: Advocate for accessible community, workplace, and online environments. Ensure physical accessibility and provide accommodations for various disabilities.

  4. Support Inclusive Policies: Support policies that promote the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Advocate for better healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

  5. Attend Events: Participate in Disability Pride events, parades, and virtual celebrations. These events often feature speakers, workshops, and performances that highlight the talents and stories of individuals with disabilities.

  6. Advocate for Accessibility: Support policies that promote accessibility in your community. Advocate for accessible transportation, inclusive education, and workplace accommodations.

  7. Support Disability-Owned Businesses: Show your support by buying products and services from businesses owned by individuals with disabilities.

  8. Share Stories: Use social media to share stories, articles, and resources related to Disability Pride Month. Amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities and help spread awareness.


Attend a Disability Pride Month Event in Your Area


Celebrate your local disability community and show your support! There isn’t a database for Disability Pride Month events (yet!), but here are a few coming up in major cities:



Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate and support people with disabilities. By learning the history, being a good ally, and joining events, we help create a fair and respectful society. Let's keep advocating, educating, and celebrating all year long. Together, we can make a world where everyone can thrive and live with dignity.


Official websites:

  1. Americans with Disabilities Acts (https://www.ada.gov/)

  2. ADA National Network (https://adata.org/)

  3. The ARC (https://thearc.org/)


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