Recognizing both visible and invisible disabilities, Disability Pride Month has been celebrated every July in cities across the country with the first celebratory events taking place in Boston. This month seeks to encompass not only those with physical disabilities like amputation, but intellectual and developmental disabilities as well.
July was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the groundbreaking Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) which was signed into law on July 26, 1990. 2023 is the 33rd anniversary since this landmark legislation was passed and today continues to protect people with disabilities in many areas of public life.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 16% of the world’s population experience significant disability, or 1 in 6. Even if you yourself do not have a disability, there is a great chance that someone you know or interact with is part of the disability community. Here at the Amputee Coalition while our primary focus is on people living with limb loss or limb difference, we are excited to do our part to promote the visibility of our community members. Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate the intrinsic worth and meaningful contributions of the disability community – your achievements!
We hope this month you truly embrace your identity and love who you are as a person with a disability. We also encourage you to share your #WeThrive story with us, consider volunteering as a Certified Peer Visitor, or get involved with our advocacy efforts. There is no better time to start than today!