Every July, communities across the U.S. recognize Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the diversity, strength and contributions of people with disabilities. The month honors the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990—a landmark moment in civil rights history. The first Disability Pride Day was held in Boston in 1990, and since then, the month has grown into a vibrant expression of identity and inclusion, uplifting the voices, stories and experiences of the disability community.
This year’s theme is “We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay.” And that’s never been more true than in classrooms nationwide. Two years ago, I highlighted a collection of classroom-ready resources to support educators, school staff and caregivers in teaching about Disability Pride Month. This year, we have many new lessons, articles and professional learning webinars designed to expand that work. However you may work and interact with students, you’ll find powerful resources to deepen understanding, foster inclusion, and celebrate neurodiversity and disability justice in meaningful ways.
Classroom Lessons on Disability Inclusion
These new classroom lessons for Disability Pride Month, discussion guides and bulletin board ideas offer engaging ways to celebrate this month and beyond while building awareness and respect for all learners. From personal storytelling and visual expression to profiles of influential disability rights advocates, each resource supports a disability-inclusive curriculum that helps educators feature disability history and identity, so all students feel a part of their community.