Every July, communities across the country unite to celebrate Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize the history, achievements, and identities of people with disabilities. It’s more than just a celebration—it’s a movement rooted in visibility, acceptance, and progress. For organizations like A Bridge to Independence, which helps individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities live more independently and confidently, Disability Pride Month embodies everything we stand for.
The History Behind Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month honors a landmark moment in U.S. history: the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This historic law banned discrimination based on disability, paving the way for more accessibility, inclusion, and opportunities. Over the years, the ADA has transformed our society; however, the work is far from complete.
The first official Disability Pride Day took place in Boston in 1990, the same year the ADA was enacted. Over time, the event has expanded into a nationwide month of recognition. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago host parades and rallies that highlight the voices of people with disabilities, push for policy changes, and celebrate disability as a natural and integral part of human diversity.
Just like LGBTQ+ Pride, Disability Pride is about more than legal rights—it’s about cultural change. It challenges outdated perceptions, breaks down stigma, and encourages people with disabilities to take pride in themselves.
Why Disability Pride Month Is Important
For individuals with disabilities, primarily those with intellectual or physical challenges, daily life can often be filled with barriers, both visible and invisible. Stigma, limited access to services, and systemic inequalities persist in many communities. Disability Pride Month acts as a platform to:
- Celebrate identity and promote self-acceptance
- Advocate for inclusion in education, employment, housing, and healthcare
- Elevate disabled voices in policy, leadership, and the arts
- Educate the public and change the narrative around disability
At A Bridge to Independence, we see the power of dignity and autonomy every day. Our goal is to identify, coordinate, and manage services that enable people with disabilities to thrive in their communities, not just survive, but to live fully.
10 Ways to Support the Disability Community in Your Neighborhood
Want to be part of the change? Here are 10 meaningful ways you can support individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities during Disability Pride Month and year-round:
- Listen and Learn
Begin by hearing directly from individuals with disabilities. Read blogs, watch documentaries, and follow disability advocates on social media to expand your understanding. - Use Inclusive Language
Words matter. Educate yourself on respectful terminology and avoid ableist language. When in doubt, ask someone how they prefer to be described. - Support Disability-Owned Businesses
Whether it’s an artist, entrepreneur, or service provider, seek out and support businesses owned by people with disabilities. - Donate to Local Organizations
Nonprofits like A Bridge to Independence rely on community support to deliver life-changing services. Donations help expand access to home- and community-based programs, support coordination, and advocacy. - Advocate for Accessibility
Is your school, workplace, or public space accessible to everyone? If not, speak up. Small changes, such as installing ramps or using captioned videos, can make a significant difference. - Hire Inclusively
If you’re an employer, consider adopting inclusive hiring practices. People with disabilities offer unique talents and perspectives to the workplace. - Attend a Disability Pride Event
Join a local march, rally, or webinar. Show your support and learn from those at the center of the movement. - Volunteer Your Time
Local organizations often need help with transportation, administrative tasks, events, or mentoring. Volunteering your time is just as valuable as donating money. - Challenge Injustice
If you see someone being mistreated or excluded because of a disability, don’t stay silent. Stand up, speak out, and be an ally. - Share and Celebrate Stories
Help amplify the achievements and stories of people with disabilities in your community. Celebrate their successes publicly.
How A Bridge to Independence Makes a Difference
Since its founding, A Bridge to Independence has been committed to empowering individuals throughout Pennsylvania to live with greater self-determination. We serve individuals on waivers, including those with the Adult Autism Waiver, Community Health Choices, and the OBRA Waiver. Our dedicated support coordinators work closely with participants to identify their needs, set personal goals, and connect them with the services they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
From helping people find accessible housing and healthcare to connecting them with vocational training, A Bridge to Independence makes sure nobody navigates these systems alone. Our work is grounded in dignity, empowerment, and the conviction that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life.
Join Us in Building a More Inclusive Future
This July, as we celebrate Disability Pride Month, we invite you to reflect on how your voice, your choices, and your actions can uplift others. Inclusion doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built intentionally, step by step, bridge by bridge.
Please support our mission by making a donation or sharing our story. Together, we can ensure that individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities have access to the services, opportunities, and respect they deserve.
Let’s honor Disability Pride Month not only with words, but with action.
Visit www.abridgetoindependence.org to learn more and get involved.
