This article comes from the Human Rights Watch. The United States Congress passed The Americans With Disability Act on July 26, 1990. The Act prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, and communication. People in the United States celebrate Disability Pride Month every July, honoring the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of all people with disabilities. Even with laws set into place and accomplishments, barriers still break down inclusion.


The month of July Disability Pride is meant to celebrate the value and meaningful contributions of our community of people with disabilities. Our society is a rich fabric, and we are all woven into it. Each person needs and desires to be a part of that fabric. So many times, a person with a disability experiences discrimination and marginalization. Though July is the month earmarked to honor, recognize and celebrate, it is important to hear what this community has to say all year-long, what Pride means to them, what they are proud of, and to encourage them to tell their stories.


What are some ways we can help to celebrate Pride Month all year long? We all have the right and desire to be a whole part of our society. Starting at home is a great way to teach our children to help foster inclusion. Educational laws have changed over the years, and people with disabilities have the right to an education in our school systems. Right now, 85% of disabled people are unemployed. Many want to work and contribute. Reaching out to elected officials and stressing the importance of policies that strengthen the quality of life for people with disabilities is another excellent way to get involved. Consider donating time and money to organizations at the forefront of making positive changes in disability rights. Reaching out in our communities, places of work, and worship is an outstanding way to share our disability story or to help encourage someone else to share their story.


It takes an open mind and heart to learn, understand, and support those who face challenges. The starting point is learning to include those woven into the fabric of life. It starts with us, each of us, today.


Photo by Audi Nissen on Unsplash.