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July is Disability Pride Month: Celebrating the ADA, Identity, Inclusion, and Strength

Every July, we recognize Disability Pride Month—a time to honor the history, culture, and contributions of people with disabilities. It’s also a time to celebrate disability as a natural and valuable part of human diversity.

At The Arc Minnesota, we believe disability pride means embracing who you are, speaking up for your rights, and knowing that you belong. Pride is about visibility, strength, and community—and it’s about pushing back on the outdated belief that people with disabilities should be pitied, hidden, or “fixed.”

Why July?

Disability Pride Month takes place in July to mark the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA was a landmark moment in the disability rights movement—protecting the rights of disabled people in jobs, schools, transportation, and public places.

But the fight for equality didn’t start—or end—with the ADA. Real inclusion is still a work in progress. People with disabilities continue to face barriers in housing, employment, education, and healthcare. That’s why we continue to advocate for policies and systems that support choice, accessibility, and justice.

Pride Is Personal

Disability pride means something different to everyone. For some, it means being proud of your identity and disability community. For others, it means challenging ableism and making your voice heard. It also means standing up for the belief that people with disabilities deserve to live fully and freely, without being seen as “less than.”

As we celebrate this month, we also recognize the intersections of disability with race, gender, sexuality, and other identities. Disability justice must be inclusive and reflect the full diversity of our communities.

What You Can Do

Here are a few ways you can show your support during Disability Pride Month:

  • Celebrate Disabled Voices: Share stories and art by people with disabilities. Listen and learn.

  • Advocate for Change: Use your voice to support policies that protect disability rights.

  • Challenge Stereotypes: Call out ableism when you see it. Educate others.

  • Join Our Work: Become a member of The Arc Minnesota and help us build a future where everyone is valued.

In Community and Pride

This month—and every month—we honor the brilliance, creativity, and leadership of people with disabilities. We’re proud to be part of a movement that centers dignity, rights, and joy.

Let’s keep working together to create communities where everyone belongs, and where pride isn’t just a month—it’s a way of life.

Disability Pride Events in Minnesota