Disability Pride Month: Stigmas To Strengths
Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, honours the history and experiences of the disability community. It marks a time for individuals with disabilities to take pride in their identity, challenge societal misconceptions, and advocate for greater inclusion and accessibility.
This month serves as a reminder that disability is a natural part of human diversity.“Disability is not a ‘problem’ that needs to be ‘fixed.’ It’s an identity that needs to be embraced.”
Inclusive Language
Use language that respects people with disabilities. Avoid terms that are derogatory or imply that a disability is a negative trait.
Avoid “suffering from,” “victim of,” or “afflicted by.”
Use “living with” or “has.”
Example: “Lisa has cerebral palsy.” instead of “Lisa suffers from cerebral palsy.”
Avoid “She has to overcome..”
Use “She navigates life…”
Educate Yourself
Social Media Campaigns
#DisabilityPrideMonth. #DisabledAndProud, #AccessibilityMatters
Organisations
Pride Disability Services: Live Life with Pride
Podcasts From Lived Experiences
Reflective Questions
- How can I challenge my own biases and misconceptions about disabilities?
- What steps can I take to make my environment more inclusive and accessible?
- What would advocating for people with disabilities sound like?
- Do I listen to people who have lived experiences? If so, how can this knowledge inform my actions?
- What does being a disability ally truly mean?
