by Johanne Mayer
Disability pride month is celebrated in July because it recognizes the importance of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was passed on July. 26, 1990. Celebrating all people regardless of disability, their identities, their culture and their contributions to society is important. We all should feel accepted and included and we all can give back to society if given the chance. Being different should not be seen as a negative thing because we all are different and that is what makes the world go round; we all need to remember- we all need and want the same things. Disability pride month also seeks to change the way people think about and define disability and the stigma around it.
No one should feel like they need to hide who they are and we all should be able to exist without having shame and to advocate for our needs without fear. During the month of July, it gives people with disabilities a chance to come together and celebrate being themselves no matter the differences and it raises awareness of the challenges that are faced every day to be treated equally. When we show pride, it doesn’t mean we have to like our disabilities and challenges, that’s not what it means; it’s owning our story and celebrating our lived experience without apology and to show the world that I’m here and I’m proud of who I am and of all my achievements. Having a disability isn’t all of one’s identity, it is only part of it and there is so much more to a person, look at the person not just at the disability.
Overall, here is what having pride could look like; instead of seeing your disability as a flaw try to embrace it, try not to think you are broken, the world just wasn’t built with us in mind. Here are some things we can try to say to ourselves: “I’m proud to take up space anyway”, “My disability gives me a different lens, that’s not a weakness, it’s a contribution”. Also, here are some people who embody disability pride, Judith Heumann (1947-2023), Disability Rights Activist known as the mother of the ADA and Alice Wong, Founder of the Disability Visibility Project. Be the person that makes someone feel valued and like they belong.
Johanne Mayer is the host of Inclusive Views Podcast, which features stories and interview with the disability community. She is part of the Ambassador program for the National Down Syndrome Society and graduated from NJ Partners in Policymaking. Johanne received her Associates Degree from Mercer County College and volunteers at the Zani’s Furry Friends Dog Rescue. She leads a monthly virtual book club for adults with disabilities. Further, Johanne is a member of The National Center for Dignity in Healthcare and Community Living for People with Disabilities’ Community of Practice.
