July: National Disabilities Pride Month

Written by: Sitara Nair

Every July, people across the United States of America celebrate Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize the achievements, identities, and contributions of people with disabilities. Rather than just focusing on the challenges that people with disabilities face, though, Disability Pride Month celebrates disability as a natural part of human diversity! It encourages everyone to learn about accessibility, inclusion, and the importance of treating everyone with equal respect and kindness. Let’s learn more about the history of this awareness month and how it's celebrated. 

Disability Pride Month has its roots in the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA, a landmark civil rights law that was signed on July 26th,1990. The ADA made it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities in many areas of everyday life, including employment, education, transportation, and public spaces. The first official Disability Pride celebration took place in Boston, Massachusetts, later that year; since then, communities across the country have celebrated with parades, festivals, educational events, and activities that promote acceptance and inclusion. 

Something you might notice a lot during Disability Pride month is the language used. In society, many refer to people with disabilities by “disabled people”. While technically correct, it can often be unknowingly harmful. If one were to say “people with disabilities”, this wording emphasizes that someone is a person first, not their disability. This slight change is actually really big for many and helped reduce a lot of the stigma that came with disabilities. However, it is also important to note that some people still prefer the term “disabled person”. They might see disability as an important part of their identity, so mentioning it first isn’t harmful to them. Overall, you should always use the language someone prefers when referring to a specific person to ensure everyone's comfort!

Now, Disability Pride Month is a great opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate diversity. About one in four adults in the United States lives with some sort of disability, making disability one of the largest minority groups in the country. The month encourages people ot recognize the great talents, accomplishments, and experiences of people with disabilities, while also understanding that barriers in society (rather than the actual disabilities and the symptoms they cause) often create the biggest challenges for many. 

Disabilities come in many forms, and not all of them are visible. Some people have physical disabilities that affect movement, while others may have sensory disabilities involving vision or hearing. Disabilities can also include intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses, and invisible disabilities that cannot be seen by others. Because everyone's experience is different, it is important to avoid making assumptions based solely on appearance.

Many people also might confuse disability awareness with disability pride, but they have intertwining but different goals. Disability awareness focuses on helping people understand disabilities and the challenges individuals may face. Disability pride goes a step further by celebrating disability as an important part of many people's identities. It encourages society to move beyond stereotypes and recognize that people with disabilities can live successful and fulfilling lives despite any setbacks they might face within their institution. 

Throughout history, many individuals with disabilities have inspired others through their accomplishments and advocacy. Activists like Judy Heumann fought for equal rights and helped shape disability legislation in the United States. Haben Girma became the first Deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School and works to improve accessibility around the world. Actress Marlee Matlin became the first Deaf performer to win an Academy Award, while musician Stevie Wonder has inspired millions through his music and advocacy.

You can participate in Disability Pride by learning more about disability history, supporting disability-led organizations, reading books by disabled authors, attending community events, and helping make schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods more accessible! Let’s make a world where everyone feels safe and comfortable to be themselves!