07/04/2023
July marks Disability Pride Month and is an opportunity to honor the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of the disability community.
All disabilities and their characteristics should be acknowledged, valued, and respected.
July also marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that broke down barriers to inclusion in society.
Here are ways YOU can be aware and support:
Learn about the diversity of people with disabilities. Whether those be Emotional, Psychiatric, Physical, Intellectual, Nuerodivergent, etc, now is the time to educate yourself. Some people were born differently able, some people acquired their challenge through injury or illness or trauma. Be Aware and Be KIND!
Hire persons who are differently abled and recognize that "disabled" does not mean unable. It means determined. Don't EVER assume someone cannot handle a job if they show you otherwise!!
Teach your children to accept differently abled persons as beautiful people who are part of what make this world go round! End bullying!
Challenge your own stigmas and stereotypes and strive to become ANTI discriminatory, not just accepting.
Recognize that not everyone "looks" disabled. Some people look just like you and are hurting emotionally and physically more than you could imagine.
Don't stare! It's rude. If your curious, ask someone if they feel safe sharing their story and then accept them for all they share!
Differently abled looks like Chronic illness, Brain Injury, Personality Illnesses, Neurodivergent, PTSD, Physical Limitations, etc.
It looks like my family🥰
Remember not all disabilities are visible but they are ALL important!!
