Disability Pride Month is an annual observance in July that celebrates people with disabilities, commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and promotes disability culture and visibility.
Observed every July, Disability Pride Month recognizes the importance of the ADA, which was signed into law on July 26, 1990. It highlights disability culture, history, and community pride. This month challenges the harmful idea that people with disabilities need to conform to norms to live meaningful lives. Their lives are just as full, valuable, and worthy of respect – no more, no less. The first Disability Pride celebration was a Disability Pride Day that took place in Boston in 1990.
The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates selected the 2025 Disability Pride Month theme: We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay. It delivers a powerful message—people with disabilities are a vital part of every community. Not someday. Not conditionally. Now.
As we celebrate this month, we asked the staff of The Arc of Massachusetts what disability pride means to them and their families. Here are their responses.
Maura Sullivan, mom of Neil and Tyler, young adults with autism and intellectual disabilities: “For me, disability pride starts at home. As a mom to Neil and Tyler, my sons with autism and intellectual disabilities, I’m in awe of their incredible journeys. For two decades, I’ve been amazed at how they navigate life. I love the way they express such deep emotional responses in unique and powerful ways. I love how they connect with people beyond words on a level that requires truly authentic connections.
I could share hundreds of moments of immense pride around the hurdles they’ve overcome and every setback they’ve refused to let discourage them. But it’s not just about what they bravely endure with complex medical conditions and limited communication. While they are heroes to me for that, they’re also shifting mindsets and attitudes just by being themselves. Every new connection they forge helps someone understand the beauty and value of human diversity.
This personal pride extends deeply into my work and our community. As the leader of The Arc, I’m grateful and proud to represent! Every day, I’m amazed by the strength and sheer power we possess together. That power was undeniably clear at the ADA35 March and Rally, as 1,400 people united for the event. The immense unity and love were palpable as we chanted our way through the route. I’m incredibly proud of my dedicated team at The Arc and the vital impact we’re making through our advocacy. As I delivered the ‘call to action’ at the rally, I knew with certainty that despite the threats facing our community, we will unite and persevere in our fight for disability rights, as we have done throughout our history. Onward together!”
Nora Bent, advocate: “To me, Disability Pride Month is all about the power to show up as one’s authentic self. As an advocate, I see such value and strength in the diverse perspectives and identities that are present in the disability community and take such pride in supporting and uplifting all of these voices as a means to advocacy. When we come to the table and bring all aspects of who we are, we can make inclusive, long-lasting, and positive change.”
Leo Sarkissian, advocate: “As an advocate, I think of individuals who demonstrate that they belong through their daily lives, interactions, and new roles. Some take on the role of teacher and advocate. The picture shows Jonathan and Sam co-teaching a session to Harvard Medical Students as part of Operation House Call, advancing the care of peers and others by the medical profession.
As an advocate, I’ve seen how parents can help a young person with a disability live their dreams and achieve belonging! I am fortunate to know many who have been partners in building on opportunities and removing barriers. Reggie turned 50 years old in 2022. A man of few words, he was born in the 1970s, when autism was not even understood. Decades later, Reggie had shown he could excel in work, travel in the community, and even, live semi-independently in his own apartment. Here to stay!”
Charlie Fiske, advocate: “When President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act, he said, ‘Let the shameful wall of exclusion come crumbling down.’ His message 35 years ago is just as significant today as we strive to ensure equal opportunities for those with disabilities. Our goal is to never rest until equal opportunities are available for all.”
Ashley Waring, mom of Alden, a 20-year-old young man with autism and an intellectual disability: “For my family, disability pride means celebrating Alden for who he is – a creative, funny, curious and energetic young man. It means including him in the community, like when we visited a local carnival to check out the sights and sounds. It means listening to his dreams – for independence, for employment – and continuing to advocate to help make them a reality.”
Rachel Hayward, advocate: “To me, disability pride means recognizing our communities are healthier and stronger when everyone is a part of them; we are all better off together than separated.”
Dotty Foley, mom of Dylan who has autism and IDD (pictured with his sister, Emma): “Not less. Not broken. Not to be fixed. Dylan, you are a light, brilliant, joyful, and whole. This month, we celebrate all of you. Exactly as you are.”
Jackie Doherty, advocate: “I identify as a human being and an advocate. To me, disability pride is about accepting that we are all unique and that we each have the right to live with dignity and to pursue our gifts and interests to the best of our abilities.”
Katrina Delaney, mom of Keira, who is 3 1/2 years old: “Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate our brilliance, shared humanity, and unique differences. It rejects the idea that disability is something to fix or pity. Disability is a vital part of diversity that fuels resilience, innovation, and strength across all of humankind. Our differences make us dynamic and that’s something to celebrate every day!”
Dianne Huggon, mom of Jonathan: “I don’t have a disability. I don’t need a month of awareness to be seen as a whole person. So why do we expect that for people with disabilities? True dignity means being known for your character, passions, and choices—every day. Person-centered values go far deeper than any theme.”
