Celebrating our differences
July is Disability Pride Month.
While it's not yet nationally recognized, many people celebrate July as Disability Pride Month. The designation is tied to the July 26 anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Former Iowa Senator Tom Harkin introduced the bill in 1988 and secured its passage in 1990. The bill outlaws discrimination based on disability and requires that public facilities be accessible to everyone.
Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate individuals with disabilities as we come together to uplift and amplify one another. Many people with disabilities tend to hide or downplay their conditions. Disability Pride Month encourages everyone to embrace their disabilities, both physically and emotionally.
Disabilities are not always apparent just from looking at someone. For instance, you may wonder why someone who seems healthy is using an elevator or taking a seat on a crowded bus, but you can't see the arthritis in their knees or their back pain. Use this time to check your own bias and ensure you are treating everyone with dignity and respect, as you never know what someone else may be going through.
Celebrate Disability Pride Month by being an ally for those with disabilities. Listen to their stories to learn more about the challenges they face – not just physically, but also emotionally and financially. Support, celebrate and encourage a world where we all can be recognized and treated equally.
Veridian is committed to being a credit union where everyone belongs. This article series spotlights different groups to encourage mutual understanding and to help create communities where everyone feels welcome.