Accessibility Quick Tip: July is Disability Pride Month!

Disability Pride Month is celebrated each July to honor the achievements, identities, and contributions of people with disabilities. This month is dedicated to promoting visibility, empowerment, and the celebration of the disability community. It also serves as a platform for advocacy, raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and fostering a more inclusive society. Disability Pride Month coincides with the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensures equal opportunities in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, transportation, and government services.

History of Disability Pride

The first official Disability Pride Day was celebrated in Boston in 1990, the same year the ADA was enacted. Since then, Disability Pride Month has grown, with various cities and communities across the United States and around the world holding events and activities to celebrate and advocate for disability rights. Disability Pride Month features a wide range of themes and activities designed to celebrate and advocate for the disability community. Celebrations include parades and events; workshops, panels, and seminars to educate the public about disability history, rights, and issues; exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural performances highlighting the contributions of disabled artists and creators; advocacy campaigns focusing on promoting policy changes, raising awareness about accessibility issues, and encouraging businesses and institutions to adopt inclusive practices.

Observing Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Month is an important experience for everyone as it encourages all of us to be more inclusive and accommodating of people with disabilities, recognizing their right to participate fully in all aspects of life. It helps to dismantle harmful stereotypes and stigmas associated with disabilities, fostering a more accepting and respectful society, and empowers people with disabilities to take pride in their identities, fostering self-advocacy and resilience. It is a vibrant and meaningful celebration that honors the achievements, resilience, and diversity of the disability community. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal rights for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. By participating in Disability Pride Month activities and advocating for disability rights, we can help build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Get Involved

Want to know what is going on locally? The Center on Colfax is a great place to start. On Saturday, July 27, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, The Center will be Celebrating Disability Pride Month! This year’s celebration will feature a speed-friending opportunity, a community art installation, and multiple interactive presentations. Additionally, participants can explore The Center’s local resource fair and engage with organizations ranging from arts engagement to service providers, including Atlantis Community, Inc., National Jewish Health, and Sexploratorium. Food and drinks will be provided along with coffee from DIRT Coffee.

Please contact Bryant Mehay at bmehay@lgbtqcolorado.org for more information or any questions. Advance registration is highly encouraged, especially to note any specific accommodations you may need. RSVP for the celebration.