Disability Pride Month

July is Disability Pride Month, a celebration of the pride felt by those individuals with disabilities. Beginning as Disability Pride Day to recognize the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio declared July as Disability Pride Month in 2015 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this civil rights law. Although not a nationally recognized observance, the month continues to be recognized by the disabled community as a celebration of heritage, disability culture, and the unique experiences and contributions of people with disabilities.

To recognize and celebrate this month, CEHHS created a curated list of resources centering disabled voices and stories. We organized these resources into different categories to focus on the unique experiences of the broad community. These resources are available through the UT Library and online.

2024 Resource Update: The Legacy of Disabled Innovators

Embark on a journey inspired by the remarkable disabled innovators who have left an indelible mark on the world. Discover the transformative impacts these pioneers have made, their groundbreaking contributions spanning across various fields – from technology to arts, science to social activism. From the tenacious trailblazers who challenged societal norms in the face of adversity, to the influential voices advocating for inclusivity and accessibility, disabled individuals have significantly shaped our society. In this curated resource guide, we highlight the inventors, artists, scientists, and activists who have enriched our world with their unique perspectives and unwavering determination, thereby inspiring change and progress.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), one of the most comprehensive civil rights legislations in the United States. This “equal opportunity” law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability status. The ADA protects individuals with disabilities rights to procure employment, to purchase goods/services, and to participate in governmental programs. Learn more about the ADA at www.ada.gov

Disabled Voices

The below resources highlight some of the voices in the disabled community through different media formats.

Curated July 2021 by Miranda N. Rutan, Doctoral Student, CEHHS A&E, UT Knoxville | Updated July 2024 by Miranda N. Rutan, Doctoral Student, CEHHS A&E, UT Knoxville