Disability Pride Month

In recent years, our society has taken significant strides toward inclusivity and celebrating the diversity of human experiences. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed on July 26, 1990, to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities. Following this legislation, Boston held the first Disability Pride Day event in July 1990. The intention was of celebrating and reclaiming visibility in public. Check out https://www.verywellmind.com/understanding-disability-pride-month-5193069 for more information.

What is Disability Pride Month?

July is Disability Pride Month! This is a time to raise awareness, promote understanding, and foster acceptance of individuals with disabilities. It is an opportunity for people with disabilities, their families, friends, and allies to come together, celebrate their achievements, and advocate for a world that recognizes their abilities rather than focusing on their limitations.

Disability Pride is a movement that aims to shift the narrative surrounding disabilities. The goal is to go from one of pity or sympathy to that of empowerment and acceptance. It encourages people with disabilities to embrace their unique identities, assert their rights, and celebrate their achievements and contributions. Disability Pride Month is an annual occasion to highlight these goals and promote disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion.

During Disability Pride Month, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the countless accomplishments of individuals with disabilities throughout history. From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to artistic masterpieces, disabled individuals have made remarkable contributions to various fields. Their achievements remind us that disability does not equate to inability and that society benefits from diverse perspectives and talents. By highlighting these achievements, Disability Pride Month inspires others and breaks down stereotypes. This fosters a culture that values and appreciates the abilities and contributions of all individuals.

What is it All About?

Disability Pride Month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and educate the public about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. It is a chance to promote disability etiquette, encourage inclusive language, and challenge misconceptions surrounding disabilities. Through workshops, events, and campaigns, Disability Pride Month creates a platform for sharing stories, fostering empathy, and promoting understanding. It helps create a more inclusive society by breaking down barriers, promoting accessibility, and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

One of the key objectives of Disability Pride Month is to empower individuals with disabilities. It is also to provide them with a voice in advocating for their rights. It is a time to mobilize efforts to improve accessibility, fight discrimination, and promote equal opportunities. Disability Pride Month encourages individuals with disabilities to stand up for themselves, demand inclusion, and work toward a society that values and respects the rights of all. It also urges allies to join the cause, supporting disability rights and dismantling ableism in all its forms.

How Can You Get Involved?

Locally we have several organizations that offer individualized services for those who require support. This is based on their unique needs and goals. One non-profit organization doing this is Lifestyle Equity Society. They focus on overcoming barriers and changing the way others think about supported living. You can read more about this particular organization at https://www.lifestyleequity.ca/who-is-lifestyle-equity-society/

We also have local volunteer-led organizations, such as Powderhounds Adaptive Snowsports (PAS) operating locally in the winter and Adaptive Sailing Association of British Columbia (ASABC) operating locally in the summer.  PAS offers unique skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing opportunities for individuals with physical, cognitive and sensory challenges at Big White Ski Resort (see a video at https://youtu.be/J0MoFtkBfJE). While ASABC offers sailing to empower people with physical disabilities to re-imagine what is possible with sailboats that are designed specifically to be accessible for all levels of ability, with the use of either joystick controls or sip-and-puff technology.

Disability Pride Month is a significant occasion that reminds us to embrace diversity, challenge preconceived notions, and promote inclusivity. It serves as a rallying point for individuals with disabilities, their families, and allies to celebrate achievements, raise awareness, and advocate for a more equitable and accessible world.

If you are looking to connect further or receive mental health supports around a disability or mental health concern, please Contact Us  at 250-718-9291 or email us at info@okclinical.com

Written by: Maureen Wolfe, MACP

Maureen@okclinical.com

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