July is Disability Pride Month

Learn about and Celebrate Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Flag:

The Disability Pride flag is a symbol of unity and visibility for the Disability Pride movement. Designed by Ann Magill, it features a black background with a diagonal band from top left to bottom right, comprising five parallel stripes in muted colors: red, gold, white, blue, and green.

• Red: Represents physical disabilities.
• Gold: Symbolizes neurodivergence.
• White: Signifies invisible and undiagnosed disabilities.
• Blue: Represents psychiatric disabilities.
• Green: Symbolizes sensory disabilities.

The flag celebrates diversity and resilience within the disability community, promoting pride and advocacy for equality.

Disability Pride Month, observed globally each July, commemorates the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and celebrates the diverse identities and contributions of People with Disabilities worldwide. This movement aims to reshape societal perceptions of disability, promoting it as a natural aspect of human diversity rather than a stigma. From its roots in civil rights activism to its evolution into a month-long celebration, Disability Pride Month fosters community unity and raises awareness about ongoing barriers to equality faced by People with Disabilities. Across nations like the US, UK, and New Zealand, Disability Pride events empower individuals to embrace their identities and advocate for societal inclusivity, making July a pivotal time for honoring disability pride and promoting social justice.

For those interested in understanding the origins and evolution of Disability Pride Month, the celebrations trace back to pivotal moments like the Capitol Crawl of 1990 and the subsequent passage of disability rights legislation. These events highlight the resilience and activism within the Disability community, underscoring the ongoing efforts to challenge ableism and achieve full societal acceptance. From local parades in cities like Chicago and Brighton to broader educational initiatives, Disability Pride Month offers a platform to amplify voices, educate communities, and foster vibrant, inclusive societies worldwide.

As Disability Pride Month expands globally, its impact extends beyond mere celebration to advocacy for systemic change. By participating in or supporting Disability Pride events, individuals contribute to a movement that asserts disability as integral to human diversity. Embracing Disability Pride means acknowledging the historical and ongoing struggles for accessibility and equality, making July a moment to unite in building more inclusive communities and advancing the rights of all People with Disabilities.

Whether you're new to the concept or deeply involved in Disability advocacy, exploring Disability Pride Month encourages a deeper understanding of disability rights history, celebrates achievements, and highlights ongoing barriers. Join the movement in striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities!

Watch the video below featuring People with various Disabilities answering the question, 'What does Disability Pride mean to you?'

Read the full article: Disability Pride Month