Digita11y Accessible is proud to support DPM 2022!
Inclusivity and Celebration of People with Disabilities
July is Disability Pride Month – and it’s an opportunity for us to speak out, share our authentic stories and offer tangible support. This is a time to exude our enthusiasm for a co-created accessible future by promoting what is possible, while finding creative solutions to overcome existing and emerging barriers.
This is a time when the disability community is defining our own narrative and actively reclaiming a sense of identity. We are reshaping the world around us, and with it, the social fabric in all aspects of culture, business and the arts. While Disability Pride could be seen as a fresh and radical concept, it might also be the ripple that forms a wave of transformation in inclusive accessibility.
Here at Digita11y Accessible we are amplifying collective and individual voices to put the spotlight on Disability Pride Month, and highlight the importance of accessibility via equitable, digital access.
This is an important opportunity for illuminating all that can be done to enable digital environments we use – to make them accessible and inclusive for all users — in alignment with the individual needs of usage. Educating and engaging the policy makers, digital creators, disability community and general public, while making us all aware of the need to make continual improvements at a greater speed.
We can raise awareness and look at how organizations, charities and businesses can become more accessible for everyone, in all ranges of abilities.
The History of Disability Pride Month
The first disability pride parade was held in Boston, Massachusetts in 1990, following the passing of the (ADA) Americans with disabilities Act. This document was the “world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities” – and you can see it at the ADA Anniversary Website.
To celebrate ADA’a 25th Anniversary, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio declared July Disability Pride Month (DPM) in 2015. Although not yet declared nationally in the US, the DPM has been adopted by NYC’s disability community and has been given their declaration.
In Canada, DPM disability community members and advocates celebrate locally with parades, community celebrations, as well as artistic and educational events. Through articles and social media, the disability community uses the event to amplify our shared experiences about the barriers faced by so many Canadians with disabilities and how we can find solutions.
The DPM and Intersectionality
Intersectionality describes how race, class, gender, disability, and other individual characteristics “intersect” and overlap with one another. (DPM) can shed light on intersectionality and through understanding the subtleties of discrimination, the importance of demolishing oppressive racial and cultural hierarchies.
As we navigate the social currents of the 21st century, we rise to the need of a revolution in accessibility and inclusion. In July we can share in an opportunity to amplify our lived experiences and radiate the optimism that so many Canadians need right now.
Join our Events to celebrate, learn and grow.