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.”

   — Stella Young

 

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

Disability Pride Sydney

Pride Foundation Australia

Podcasts From Lived Experiences

Disability Visibility

Speak Up

Disability And Proud

Reflective Questions

1. How can I challenge my own biases and misconceptions about disabilities?

2. What steps can I take to make my environment more inclusive and accessible?

3. What would advocating for people with disabilities sound like?

4. Do I listen to people who have lived experiences? If so, how can this knowledge inform my actions?

5. What does being a disability ally truly mean?

 

Disability Pride Month is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. It urges us to recognise and value the contributions of individuals with disabilities and to work collectively towards a more inclusive society. By embracing inclusive language, educating ourselves, and reflecting on our practices, we can contribute to a world where everyone feels comfortable to be there true selves.

Carrie O'Connor