Celebrating Disability Pride

As Disability Pride Month comes to a close, it's a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and contributions of people with disabilities. From grassroots activists and policy changers to innovative technologists and inspirational storytellers, disability advocates come in many forms. This month highlighted the importance of adaptive sports and employment. None could be possible without the stories and legacies of some of the most prominent disability advocates and leaders who have profoundly impacted their communities and beyond. These individuals have paved the way for greater understanding, acceptance, and equality through their dedication and advocacy.

Judith Heumann

Judith Heumann is often called the "Mother of the Disability Rights Movement." A lifelong advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, Heumann has worked tirelessly to improve accessibility and inclusion. She played a pivotal role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, a landmark law prohibiting discrimination based on disability. Today is the anniversary of that law. Heumann’s advocacy has spanned decades, and her work continues to inspire new generations of activists.

Ed Roberts: Pioneering Independent Living

Ed Roberts is known as the father of the Independent Living movement. Contracting polio at the age of 14, Roberts became one of the first wheelchair users to attend the University of California, Berkeley. He founded the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley, which became a model for similar centers nationwide. Roberts’ work emphasized the importance of self-determination, self-respect, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

Temple Grandin: Champion for Autism Awareness

Temple Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University, is one of the most well-known advocates for people with autism. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Grandin has used her experiences to help others understand the condition better. She has written numerous books on autism and animal behavior, and her life story was depicted in an Emmy-winning HBO movie. Grandin’s work has significantly contributed to autism awareness and acceptance.

Haben Girma: Breaking Barriers for Deafblind Individuals

Haben Girma is the first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School. An advocate for disability rights, Girma has worked to increase accessibility in technology and education. She has spoken at numerous conferences, written about her experiences, and provided legal support to ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Girma’s achievements are a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished with determination and support.

Alice Wong: Amplifying Voices Through Storytelling

Alice Wong founded the Disability Visibility Project, an online community dedicated to creating, sharing, and amplifying disability media and culture. Wong’s work focuses on the power of storytelling to bring about social change. She has edited several anthologies and hosts a podcast that features conversations with disabled individuals. Wong’s dedication to representation and inclusivity has helped elevate the voices of many in the disability community

Resources

Judy Heumann

Alice Wong

Temple Grandin

After years of advocacy and preparation, 988 has been recently rolled out nationwide as the new number to contact for mental health, substance use, and suicide crises. People now have a simple, easy-to-remember way for people to get help. This new number will allow people to quickly connect with support during an emergency, 24/7, regardless of location.