Did you know that one in four adults in the United States lives with a disability? These are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members. In honor of these individuals, we want to share with you what Disability Pride Month is, why it matters here in the Tri-Cities, and how you can participate!
What is Disability Pride Month?
Disability Pride Month is observed every July, marking the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark civil rights law prohibits discrimination based on disability in employment, education, transportation, and public accommodations. This month celebrates and honors disability identity, culture, and achievement while advocating for full, equitable inclusion into all aspects of everyday life.
The theme for 2026 is “The World Works Better With Us.” Selected by The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates (NCSA), a disabled-led national council, this theme centers on the goal of inclusion, in which people with disabilities are included in schools, workplaces, healthcare, transportation, and public life with respect and support.
As part of Disability Pride Month, cities throw celebrations in a variety of ways. HERE is what you can see in the Tri-Cities.
Progress Made—And Challenges That Still Exist
Since the ADA was signed into effect on July 26th, 1990, there has been tremendous improvement in legal protections, accessibility, representation, and awareness.
However, one of the primary points of Disability Pride Month is to recognize that, while systemic support for people with disabilities has come a long way, there is still much to accomplish. Many people with disabilities still face barriers to inclusion, limiting their ability to access and succeed in areas of education, jobs, healthcare, and community awareness.
To put it in perspective, let’s look at employment alone. Only 22.5% of working-age adults with disabilities are employed, compared to 65% of their non-disabled peers. Then we can add the fact that people with disabilities are twice as likely to live below the poverty line.
Additionally, current federal cuts to Medicaid and special education are worsening assistance and making paths to support more difficult to obtain.
Due to this, it is vital that we not only recognize Disability Pride Month at the federal level but also within our own communities.
Why Disability Pride Month Matters to the Tri-Cities
26% of the U.S. adult population has some type of disability, meaning that disability impacts nearly every family, workplace, school, and community organization in some way. Whether it is an obvious disability or more subtle, the full scope of living with a disability is often underrepresented.
Celebrating Disability Pride Month helps build a community where everyone can participate fully. Not only does it bring greater awareness and reduce stigma, but it also opens doors by opening people’s eyes. When more knowledge is brought to the general topic, it increases employment, community, and cultural opportunities.
Disability-Led Innovations That Changed Everyday Life
Did you know there is quite a list of innovations we use every day that started with disability inclusion? Meaning that inventions designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities have become key tools most people use on a regular basis. In honor of Disability Pride Month, let us share a few with you.
Typing: One of the beginning typewriter prototypes, designed by Italian Pellegrino Turri in 1808, was created for a blind friend. Now, most individuals have both home and work computers that they use daily.
Audiobooks: Audiobooks were designed in 1932 by the American Federation for the Blind for the visually impaired. Now, it is estimated that half of all Americans have listened to at least one audiobook.
Texting: Texting was the end result of a series of inventions designed to help people who are deaf or hard of hearing communicate over distances. Now, almost everyone who uses a cellphone texts every day.
Bendy Straws: Straws that bend were invented in the 1940s to assist sick or mobility-impaired individuals to drink liquids without having to lift a cup. Now, we all enjoy the joy of drinking from a straw.
How We Can Support Inclusion Year-Round
Disability Pride Month happens in July, but inclusion matters every day. There are practical ways you can assist in supporting inclusion all year long. Just a few examples are:
- Learn from disability advocates
- Support inclusive employers
- Attend community events
- Advocate for accessibility improvements
- Challenge stereotypes and assumptions
- Donate money or services to supporting organizations
- Volunteer with your local disabilities community center
Building a More Inclusive Tri-Cities Together
Are you ready to be a part of the change? Learn more about Columbia Ability Alliance and how you can support a more inclusive community.
