July is Dis
ability Pride Month—a time to celebrate the strength, creativity, and diversity of the disability community. It’s more than just a month on the calendar; it’s a movement that challenges outdated ideas, breaks down barriers, and centers the voices of people with disabilities.
Disability Pride invites us to reframe how we see disability—not as something broken or tragic, but as an identity, a culture, and a vital part of human diversity. Pride means rejecting shame and silence. It means honoring the inherent worth of every person—just as they are.
A History Rooted in Advocacy
Disability Pride Month began in July 1990, coinciding with the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States—a landmark moment in the fight for disability rights. Since then, the movement has grown internationally, with more communities holding parades, events, and conversations about access, equity, and representation.
But Disability Pride isn’t just about laws—it’s about lived experiences. It’s about the art, activism, innovation, and leadership within the disability community. It’s about saying, “We belong here. We’ve always belonged.”
At WIN, we are guided by our values are rooted in Gentle Teaching, which emphasizes unconditional love and value of all human beings. We say and teach, you are safe with us, you are loved and valued just as you are.
Pride in All Forms
Disability looks different for everyone. It may be visible or invisible, acquired or lifelong, physical, cognitive, mental, or sensory. And just as there’s no single way to be disabled, there’s no single way to feel about it. Pride can look like acceptance. It can look like advocacy. It can even look like learning to unlearn internalized ableism.
At its core, Disability Pride is about dignity, identity, and community.
How We Celebrate
This month, we:
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Lift up disabled voices—especially those at the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and class.
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Challenge stigma—by having open, honest conversations.
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Celebrate creativity—through art, storytelling, and culture.
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Work for access—not as a favor, but as a right.
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Reaffirm belonging—in every space, including workplaces, schools, and community programs.
An Invitation
Whether you live with a disability or stand in allyship, this month is an invitation to learn, reflect, and act. It’s a chance to ask: How are we showing up for each other? Are our spaces truly inclusive? Are we making room for everyone’s voice at the table?
Let’s move beyond awareness to acceptance. Let’s celebrate not despite disability—but with it.
Disability is not a flaw. It’s a part of humanity. And that’s something to be proud of.