This month marks 35 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990, protecting the rights of people with disabilities against employment discrimination, while fostering inclusion in society.
The goal was also to expand access to all levels of government, public establishments, transportation and communication, opening doors that had previously been closed for the more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States—over 70 million people—who have a disability.
Disability Pride Month is an annual observance that celebrates people with disabilities, commemorates the signing of the ADA, and promotes disability culture and visibility.
Here’s more background on the origin of Disability Pride Month, and here’s a story about the origin of the disability pride flag, from Columbia: History of the Disability Pride flag.
Here’s a link to The Arc’s page on “Why and How to Celebrate Disability Pride Month” where they write about this year’s theme: We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay.
“It delivers a powerful message—people with disabilities are a vital part of every community. Not someday. Not conditionally. Now.”
As disability rights face growing threats in education, employment, health care, and public life, this year’s theme is a clear call to action. It pushes back against ableism—discrimination and bias against people with disabilities—and exclusion. It reminds us that people with disabilities will not be erased, ignored, or pushed aside.”
But that’s exactly what did happen when Congress passed the tax and spending bill that cut $1 trillion from healthcare, including Medicaid cuts that will disproportionately people with disabilities, who depend on long‑term care protections, mental and physical health services, and nutrition assistance programs.
Here’s more about what’s at stake regarding healthcare access for people with disabilities from Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF).
During Disability Pride Month, NOW members will educate themselves about disability rights, access and inclusion; share and promote content created by disabled authors, artists and podcasters; engage in disability rights advocacy and activism; volunteer or donate to groups that support disable individuals; attend a disability pride event; learn about ableism and push back on harmful language and outdated thinking when we encounter it; and teach the next generation how to show up and make a difference.