Love the skin you’re in and use your voice!

Most of us hear July and think fireworks, boat rides, and fun in the sun, but did you know that July is also Disability Pride Month?

On July 26, 1990 the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed into law. This landmark law made it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities. So now we recognize the month of July as a celebration of differences. To show that all people should embrace their identity and take pride in who they are.

July is an opportunity to recognize challenges and advocate for change. Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans are living with a disability? Riding your bike, diving yourself to work, going shopping at the supermarket, walking into your favorite restaurant; all simple, everyday things, that many of us take for granted. Imagine having to research everywhere you go before going there. Do they have a wheelchair accessible ramp, is the floor layout accessible, is there enough space for my medical equipment to fit between people, is the light too high, is the atmosphere too loud, is there handicap parking, and the list goes on and on depending on what your medical need may be. Although we have come a long way since 1990, we still have a long way to go.

This month also acts as an opportunity to raise awareness of systemic barriers in education, employment, healthcare, transportation, and public life. I challenge you to really pay attention the next time you are in a public space, and to think outside of the scope of “me”. Expand your thinking to include others who may be different from yourself; would the world be so easy to navigate if you weren’t “you”?

So how can YOU make a difference? · Email or call your elected officials. Ask them to protect Medicaid, special education, and disability civil rights. Tell them disability rights are nonnegotiable.

· Donate to organizations led by and for people with disabilities. Your support helps fund advocacy, legal work, and community-based solutions.

· Talk to people with disabilities in your community. Ask what matters most and follow their lead. If you invite someone to speak, train a group, or share expertise, offer an honorarium. · Challenge ableism and harmful language. Push back on stereotypes and slurs, including the R-word, and set clear expectations for respect.

· Teach the next generation. Have open and honest age-appropriate conversations to discuss disability, inclusion, and bullying.

“It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences” – Audre Lorde.