Disability Pride

Did you know it’s disability pride month? Do you know what the disability pride flag looks like? Do you know about the capital crawl? Do you know what the ADA is? Are you following disabled creators to learn about more perspectives and experiences?

These are the things that should be talked about during disability pride month (and every other month).

The disability pride flag is a diagonal stripe with 5 colors: green, blue, white, yellow, and pink. These colors represent mental illness, intellectual and developmental disabilities, invisible and undiagnosed disabilities, physical disabilities, and sensory disabilities.

The capital crawl of 1990 occurred in March and was a hugely historic moment. Over 60 wheelchair users crawled up steps in protest. This led to the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, (passed July 26 of 1990) which prevents discrimination against disabled individuals. While disabled individuals are still fighting for equality, the ADA was a huge step in the right direction. For more information on the ADA and how it relates to Service Dogs, click here.

There is so much more that I want to talk about when it comes to disability pride month, such as accommodations and struggles, but the easiest way to learn more is to listen to others in the community.

I wouldn’t change being disabled because it is a part of me and instead of trying to fix myself, I have found a passion in changing the world to accommodate disabled individuals. You are worthy and contribute to society no matter your abilities. You deserve to love yourself as you are NOW. Not who you could be without your disabilities. I’m proud of you and hope you can find pride in your differences :)