It's July, and that means it's Disability Pride Month! Ever wonder why we celebrate it in July?

Disability Pride Month is celebrated in July in honor of the passage of the Americans With Disability Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990.  According to the Arc of the United States “This month challenges the harmful idea that people with disabilities need to conform to norms to live meaningful lives.” 

The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates chose the 2025 theme “We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay” for this year's Disability Pride Month.  It’s a strong message that tells us that people with disabilities are part of the fabric of America and can’t be dismissed.  Even though many DEI initiatives have been eliminated across the country, people with disabilities are pushing back.

They’re also pushing back against the increased use of the “R” word.  Our June newsletter discussed the recent use of the word by prominent figures.  In a blog by the Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates we learn directly from the people it affects the most.  This blog is a call to action for us all to speak up when we hear the word being used.  CLEP’s colleague, Barbara Coppens, is quoted in the blog and her words tell us all we need to know about the feelings of people when they hear the “R” word used to describe them.  

The Arc’s Self-Advocates tell us “Disability Pride is about being accepted on our own terms. It says disability is not something to hide or fix—it’s part of who we are. Everyone deserves inclusion, rights, and respect, without having to earn them.”

This year's Disability Pride Month is coming at an uncertain time for many individuals receiving Medicaid. Many important and worthy disability organizations are also facing proposed federal and state budget cuts, and this landscape of funding uncertainty creates tremendous stress and uncertainty for the individuals relying on their services.

Now is an especially critical time to uplift, empower, and celebrate friends, family, and neighbors with disabilities. We hope you will plan ways large and small to celebrate Disability Pride Month throughout the month of July. Our friends at The Arc have put together a great list if you need a place to start!