Celebrate Disability Pride Month (July) with GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee

July is Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, strengths, and contributions of people with disabilities. At GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee, we’re excited to share why this month is important and how you can join the celebration.

A Brief History of Disability Pride

Disability Pride Month began as a movement to fight against discrimination and segregation faced by people with disabilities. Early advocacy groups worked tirelessly to promote the rights of individuals with disabilities, leading to significant milestones like the independent living movement and the passage of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act in 1973.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), introduced in 1988 and signed into law in 1990, further solidified protections against discrimination in employment, public life, education, and more. The first Disability Pride Day was celebrated in Boston in July 1990, and the tradition has continued, evolving into Disability Pride Month.

In 2008, President George W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) into law. The ADAAA strengthened and expanded the protections of the ADA, ensuring that individuals with disabilities would not face unnecessary obstacles in establishing their eligibility for reasonable accommodations.

Promoting Respectful Language & Etiquette 🌟

July is the perfect time to celebrate the diverse abilities of individuals and promote inclusivity. Let’s ensure we use respectful language and practice proper etiquette:

1. Use Person-First Language: Say “person (name) with … (disability)” instead of “disabled person” OR ask them what they prefer!
2. Avoid Offensive Terms: Refrain from using terms like “handicapped,” “crippled,” or “retarded.”
3. Respect Personal Space: Don’t touch a person’s wheelchair or assistive devices without permission.
4. Ask Before Assisting: Offer help, but wait for acceptance or instructions.
5. Listen and Learn: Take the time to listen to people with disabilities and learn from their experiences.

Let’s make our community more inclusive and respectful! ♿️

The Meaning of the Flag

The Disability Pride Flag was created by Ann Magill, a disabled woman, and each of its elements symbolizes a different part of the disability community:

• The Black Field: Represents the disabled people who have lost their lives due to illness, negligence, suicide, and eugenics.
• The Colors:
  • Red: Physical disabilities
  • Yellow: Cognitive and intellectual disabilities
  • White: Invisible and undiagnosed disabilities
  • Blue: Mental illness
  • Green: Sensory perception disabilities

Ann Magill redesigned the flag in July 2021 based on feedback from the disabled community that the original lightning bolt design posed a risk for people with epilepsy and migraine sufferers. The new design is more accessible and continues to honor the meaning behind Disability Pride.

The inclusive approach of the flag reflects the community’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. This redesign is a brilliant example of the community coming together to find a solution that works for everyone.

Paying Tribute

The Black Field on Ann Magill’s Disability Pride flag is designed to represent the disabled people who have lost their lives due to their illness, negligence, suicide, and eugenics. This Disability Pride Month, we remember all those who lost their lives and are unable to celebrate with us.

How to Celebrate

Educate Yourself & Loved Ones

• Learn about the history of Disability Pride Month.
• Understand what discrimination against people with disabilities looks like.

Be an Advocate

• Recognize disability culture and become an ally.
• Fight for disability justice, stand up against discrimination and spread awareness.

Attend or Join a Parade

• Participate in Disability Pride Parades across the country.
• Carry a Disability Pride Flag and celebrate the occasion.

Celebrate Uniqueness

• Appreciate and celebrate each person’s uniqueness during Disability Pride Month.

Stand Up Against Ableism

• Speak out against ableism in the workplace, healthcare, and schools.

Check on Mental Health

• If you or a loved one is part of the disability community, check in on mental health and remember the importance of intersectionality.

Join Us at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee

At GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee, we strive to change the way the world views Down syndrome and promote acceptance for all. We invite you to celebrate Disability Pride Month with us by participating in our events, volunteering, or simply spreading the message of inclusion and acceptance.

Let’s make this July a month of pride, awareness, and celebration!

For more information, visit us at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee.