Photo ID: the updated Disability Pride Flag representing the solidarity and struggle endured by the disabled community. Each color symbolizes a different disability group.
Disability pride sounds like an oxymoron. Taking pride in identifying as disabled is a journey. It is not the same thing for everyone. Sometimes, reaching acceptance and ultimately belonging never happens in this lifetime. I find this time of year a blend of joy, sorrow, and some wariness. I want to do more to promote the celebration of passing the Americans with Disabilities Act, yet I am worn out from promoting epilepsy and migraine work earlier in the month. This year was more challenging with a new plot twist thrown in the mix. I do want this special time of year promoted, but I need a break.
You might think I am backing down and quitting my role as an Ambassador,; however, the opposite is true. I decided it is okay to step down and take a breather. Slow my roll and enjoy time away from always having to "Do" things. I remind myself it is not my responsibility to change people's minds. It's also not my job to do this 24/7, 365. I will burn myself out. There is room to be sad, tired, ashamed, alone, scarred, scared, angry, and "not okay". I don't have to share every ounce of my disabled life all the time. Some thoughts are better left unsaid and not for everyone's dissection.
If you are curious to learn more about July's amazing celebration, it is almost the 35th year when the ADA was signed into law. The month celebrates the unsung heroes who paved the way for accessibility in schools, in buidings, and with transporation to name a few. You can read a few books about it (One of my favorites is All the Way to the Top).or see some movies like Crip Camp (highly recommended!) . You can also listen to stories by fellow disabled advocates and artists on a page called The Disability Visiibility Project, a great resource for hearing oral stories by and for disabled folks. These are a few suggestions/ideas on how to get started. The biggest way you can celebrate the disabled community is by being with someone in the disabled community albeit nursing home, in their house, hospital, housing, apartment, or anywhere in the area. There is no lack of disabled folks. We are everywhere and not always considered "disabled" because some of us have hidden ones like myself. Be sure to call ahead and schedule a time to hang out with us!
That is the best way celebrate the Disabled folks in your neighborhood during this Disability Pride Month. And remember, not everyone wants to share their story. Respect their wishes. Thank you. I will talk to you all after vacation. Stay seizure free and have a great summer!
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