July is Disability Pride Month

Celebrating Disability Pride Month

As the calendar turns to July, it’s time to honor and celebrate Disability Pride Month—a month dedicated to promoting acceptance, understanding, and appreciation for individuals with disabilities. During this period, we come together as a global community to acknowledge the unique experiences and contributions of people with disabilities, while also striving to break down barriers and build a more inclusive society. Did you know that July was chosen because it is the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act? This year will mark 33 years!

Disability Pride Month serves as a crucial reminder that diversity is the essence of humanity. Every individual, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, brings a distinct perspective, talent, and voice to the world. By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive mindset, we enrich our communities and unleash the full potential of each person, creating an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute positively to society.

One of the fundamental aspects of Disability Pride Month is amplifying the voices of people with disabilities. It’s an opportunity to listen, learn, and understand the challenges they face daily, as well as the triumphs they achieve. By empowering their voices, we not only build empathy and compassion but also advocate for the removal of societal barriers and the establishment of accessible infrastructure, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

So what can we do? We can learn about Disability Pride Month and the Disability Rights Movement, follow and learn from disability advocates on LinkedIn , read Emily Ladau’s book Demystifying Disability online free from Fondren, watch Crip Camp or How the ADA Changed the Built World and prioritize including understanding disability as part of our individual DEI journeys.

Disability Pride Month is a time to reflect on the strides we’ve made towards inclusion and acknowledge the work that still lies ahead. By embracing diversity and amplifying the voices of people with disabilities, we pave the way for a more equitable and compassionate world—a world where everyone can take pride in their uniqueness and make meaningful contributions to society.