Celebrating Disability Pride Month
July holds a special place in my heart as Disability Pride Month — a time to celebrate the resilience and diversity of the disability community.
As someone living with cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological disorder affecting motor and developmental skills, this month is particularly meaningful to me.
Navigating a world that often overlooks accessibility needs can be challenging, but Disability Pride Month celebrates the strength and achievements of people with disabilities.
It's a reminder of the importance of inclusion and accessibility for all.
What Is Disability Pride Month?
Disability Pride Month celebrates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990.
This landmark legislation was a significant victory for disability rights, prohibiting discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities in various areas of life.
Key provisions of the ADA include:
- Employment: Employers must accommodate employees with disabilities by making adjustments to the work environment like providing flexible workspaces.
- Public places: Businesses must ensure accessibility by installing ramps, rearranging furniture, widening doorways, and more.
- Public services: Government organizations must make services accessible. One example is wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Telecommunications: Services such as text relay must be available for those with hearing and speech impairments
- Other protections: If discrimination occurs, there are safeguards against retaliation and provisions for covering legal fees.
The ADA has greatly improved the lives of people with disabilities by providing better access and promoting equal opportunities.
Achieving Goals With ADA Support
Growing up with cerebral palsy, I had to learn to adapt and overcome obstacles. I'm grateful for the support I received, including physical therapy for CP, as well as occupational and speech therapies.
The ADA made it easier for me to move about in the world and receive the services I needed.
Throughout my life, I've faced many challenges, from navigating inaccessible spaces to overcoming societal prejudices. Despite these obstacles, I've reached significant milestones that make me proud.
Whether it was completing medical certification programs, securing meaningful employment with Cerebral Palsy Guide, or buying my own condo, each achievement reflects the resilience of the disability community.
Disability Pride Month celebrates not just my personal victories but also the collective progress we've made.
It's a time to reflect on our journey, acknowledge the support systems that have enabled our success, and continue advocating for a more inclusive society.
Navigating Love and Self-Acceptance
If I could give advice to someone navigating a disability, I would tell them that it takes time, but the community won't judge you for being yourself.
You can be who you want and need to be. This is a message I would have given my younger self — don't hide from being yourself.
I have experienced challenges in finding love due to my disability, and this is a fear many people share. I remember a particularly hurtful incident at a bar when I had just had surgery, and someone used an offensive term to describe me.
It was a painful reminder of the bullying and misjudgment people with disabilities often face.
However, it is important to focus on happiness and self-love. We must learn to love ourselves and build confidence from within rather than seeking it elsewhere.
It's hard to love someone else when you don't love yourself, and that takes time.
Making Life More Inclusive
Reflecting on Disability Pride Month reminds us of the strides we've made toward equality and inclusion. The Americans with Disabilities Act has been a cornerstone in preventing discrimination and ensuring access for those with disabilities.
Living with cerebral palsy has profoundly shaped my identity. Despite the challenges, these experiences have also filled me with pride and inner strength.
My goal is to help more people discover the resilience of the disability community and encourage environments where everyone can thrive and express their true selves fully.
As we honor Disability Pride Month, let's continue to advocate for a world that embraces diversity and inclusivity. Together, we can create spaces where everyone — regardless of their abilities — can find joy, love, and acceptance.
If you need support for your child with CP, the team at Cerebral Palsy Guide is here. Call us at (855) 220-1101 to see how we may be able to help your family.
Written by:Amie KroessigAmie Kroessig is a Patient Advocate and Outreach Coordinator for Cerebral Palsy Guide. In her role, she provides resources and support to families and caregivers of children with cerebral palsy to help give them the quality of life they deserve.
