Disability Pride Month: How to Support People With IDDs

Every July, Disability Pride Month celebrates the contributions, identities, and civil rights of people with disabilities. The observance also commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990, a landmark civil rights law designed to protect disabled Americans from discrimination. 

Disability pride is not about having something to “overcome.” Instead, it encourages people to recognize disability as a natural part of human diversity and to advocate for a more accessible, inclusive society.

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), Disability Pride Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the barriers many individuals still face in education, employment, housing, healthcare, and community participation. 

Why Disability Pride Month Matters

Disability Pride Month highlights the long history of disability rights activism in the United States. Advocates in the disability rights movement fought for decades to secure legal protections, accessibility standards, and greater public inclusion. This month recognizes both the achievements of the disability rights movement and the ongoing need for justice and accessibility.

The month also challenges harmful stereotypes. It’s a time to reject the idea that people with disabilities should feel “less than” about their conditions or identities. Instead, it promotes self-worth, empowerment, and community belonging.

For individuals with IDDs, these messages are especially important. Many people with IDDs still experience social isolation, discrimination, bullying, or exclusion from opportunities that others take for granted.

Ways to Support People With IDDs During July

Disability Pride Month isn’t just for awareness, but action. People can make a meaningful difference by:

• Learning about disability rights history and the ADA

• Listening to disabled self-advocates and amplifying their voices

• Supporting organizations like Progressive Lifestyles that provide services and advocacy for people with IDDs

• Attending Disability Pride events, inclusive community programs, or ADA anniversary celebrations

• Advocating for accessible workplaces, schools, and public spaces

• Speaking up when they witness discrimination or ableist language

Accessibility should not be viewed as optional. True inclusion means ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate in community life.

Advocating for Disability Rights Year-Round

Advocacy can take many forms, from contacting lawmakers about disability-related legislation to supporting inclusive hiring practices and accessible transportation. This is also a time to recognize the leadership, talents, and service of disabled individuals in every part of society.

Community members can also advocate by supporting policies that expand healthcare access, affordable housing, education supports, and employment opportunities for people with IDDs. Even small actions, such as making events more accessible or promoting inclusive language, can help create a more welcoming world.

Disability Pride Month reminds people that disability rights are human rights. July offers an opportunity not only to celebrate people with disabilities, but also to help build communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Live Proud Every Day With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and has been operational since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!