As we celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, it’s essential to reflect on its history and significance. Disability Pride Month was first celebrated in 1990, coinciding with the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability.
This month is dedicated to recognizing the achievements, struggles, and identities of people with disabilities, fostering a sense of pride and community. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure equal rights and accessibility for all. Join us in celebrating this important month by acknowledging the contributions and resilience of individuals with disabilities.
To help you celebrate, The Arc has written a wonderful post, “Why and How to Celebrate Disability Pride Month,” filled with ideas for observing this important occasion. Additionally, here are a few local upcoming events you can attend this summer:
- Mayor’s Rally for Disability Rights
Monday, July 22 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at Google Pittsburgh, 6425 Penn Avenue
Join Mayor Ed Gainey and his Office of Equal Protection as they celebrate the 34th anniversary of the ADA and discuss the steps Pittsburgh is taking to improve accessibility citywide. ASL interpretation will be provided. RSVP is required! RSVP Today
- Disability Pride Pittsburgh
Saturday, August 24 from 11 am – 4 pm at Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh
Disability Pride Pennsylvania hosts the 3rd annual Disability Pride Pittsburgh celebration, a day filled with live entertainment, great resources, free swag, fun accessible games by the Ryan Shazier Fund, a sensory-friendly room at Carnegie Library, guest speakers, and community! The event will have ASL interpretation for stage performances, ADA accessible toilets, shaded areas, and water stations to stay hydrated. Masks are encouraged. (And be sure to stop by the Consortium’s exhibitor table and say hello!) Learn More
Let’s come together to celebrate and support the disability community this summer!
