Disability History Month is observed in October, while Disability Pride Month takes place in July. Let’s explore the reasons behind each:
Disability History Month (October):
- Purpose: Disability History Month aims to raise awareness about the historical context, achievements, and challenges faced by people with disabilities.
- Origins: It began in the United Kingdom in 2010 and has since spread to other countries. The choice of October is significant because it includes World Mental Health Day (October 10) and International Day of Disabled Persons (December 3).
- Focus: During this month, educational institutions and organizations highlight disability-related history, activism, and advocacy. It’s an opportunity to learn about disability rights movements, legislation, and the contributions of disabled individuals.
Disability Pride Month (July):
- Purpose: Disability Pride Month celebrates the identity, resilience, and achievements of people with disabilities. It’s a time to embrace pride and self-acceptance.
- Origins: Disability Pride was initially celebrated for a day in 1990 in Boston, USA, coinciding with the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It gained recognition as a month in 2015.
- Symbolism: The Disability Pride Flag features vibrant colors representing various disability experiences and needs. For instance:
- Red: Physical disabilities
- Gold: Neurodiversity
- White: Non-visible and undiagnosed disabilities
- Blue: Emotional and psychiatric disabilities
- Green: Sensory disabilities
- Charcoal background: Protests against ableism
- Importance: Disability Pride Month promotes visibility, counters ableism, and encourages celebration within the disabled community. Allies also play a crucial role in raising awareness.
Pride in general is in July for the LGBTQ+ community. There are different pride celebrations for different sectors within the community also which include those with disabilities. Like there’s also black pride in August for people of colour.
Is a flag needed?
Do you think this is patronising?
Both months are important. Both months contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society, recognizing the diverse experiences of people with disabilities. Both months show a level of intersectionality.
https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/about-us/news-and-events/disability-pride-month