I have been on a brief hiatus, but I’ve decided to take this opportunity to write a new blog post because July is a month of celebration, empowerment, and advocacy for millions of people around the world. It's Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the achievements, contributions, and rich diversity of the disabled community. This month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Disability Pride Month traces its roots back to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA was a groundbreaking piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, schools, transportation, and all public and private places open to the general public. The enactment of the ADA was a monumental step toward creating a more inclusive society, and Disability Pride Month was established to honor this achievement and the continuing struggle for disability rights.
Disability Pride is about embracing and celebrating all aspects of one’s identity. It encourages individuals to take pride in their disabilities, recognizing them as integral parts of who they are. This celebration challenges the stigma and discrimination that often surrounds disabilities, promoting a culture of acceptance and respect.
In the past, I have been ambivalent and even perplexed about the idea of disability pride. I often wondered, is it my disability I am proud of, or my accomplishments as a disabled woman? Over time, I have come to realize that it is about my identity as a disabled woman, much the same as my pride in my Jewish identity and my identity as a woman. While it took the first 20 something years of my life to get there, embracing my Disability has allowed me to see my disability as an integral part of who I am, deserving of respect, equal treatment and recognition.
Disability Pride Month is a time to amplify the voices of disabled individuals, ensuring they are seen and heard in all areas of society. Representation matters, and seeing disabled individuals in media, politics, and everyday life helps break down stereotypes and fosters a more inclusive world.
While there has undoubtedly been significant progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure equality for disabled people. Disability Pride Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for accessibility, accommodation, and the enforcement of disability rights. Advocacy efforts focus on improving laws, policies, and public awareness to create a more inclusive society.
Celebrating Disability Pride Month strengthens the sense of community among disabled individuals and their allies. It's an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Community events, online forums, and social media campaigns help build solidarity and foster a sense of belonging.
Raising awareness about disabilities and the challenges faced by disabled individuals is crucial. Disability Pride Month provides a platform for education, promoting understanding and empathy. It's a time to challenge misconceptions and educate the public about the diverse experiences and capabilities of disabled people.
Many cities host Disability Pride parades and events throughout July. These gatherings celebrate the disabled community, featuring speakers, performances, and opportunities to connect with advocates and allies.
You can commemorate Disability Pride Month by showing your support in some of the following ways: by purchasing from disabled-owned businesses and consuming content created by disabled artists, writers, and influencers. Not only does this provide economic support, but it also amplifies their voices and talents.
Participating in advocacy efforts by contacting your representatives about disability rights issues, supporting relevant legislation, and volunteering with organizations that work to improve the lives of disabled individuals.
Taking the time to learn about the history of the disability rights movement, the challenges faced by disabled individuals, and how you can contribute to a more inclusive society. Share this knowledge with friends, family, and your community to help spread awareness.
Disability Pride Month is more than just a celebration—it's a call to action. It's a reminder that while progress has been made, the journey towards full equality and inclusion continues. By embracing disability pride, we acknowledge the strength, value, and contributions of the disabled community, working together to build a world where everyone belongs and can thrive.
While I’m not always a fan of these month events, I do recognize fostering a society that values diversity, champions accessibility, and recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of every individual is essential. Together, we can create a future where disability is considered a natural part of the human experience, and inclusivity is the norm.
However, it is crucial to remember that the spirit of Disability Pride should extend beyond one month. Advocating for disability rights and celebrating the contributions of disabled individuals should be a year-round effort. By continually promoting education, awareness, and inclusivity, we can ensure that the progress made during Disability Pride Month has a lasting impact. Let’s strive to integrate the principles of disability pride into our daily lives, championing accessibility and inclusivity every day, not just in July.
By Michelle Friedman
Michelle Friedman is the board chair of Keshet in Chicago, a member of Disability Lead and has been a disability advocate for 40 years. She has written two children’s books and is a frequent speaker for elementary and high school-age students.
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