Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Celebrating Disability Pride Month at UI Health

At UI Health, we are proud to celebrate Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the history, achievements, and contributions of individuals with disabilities. This month provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in disability rights and the ongoing efforts to ensure equal access to healthcare and services for all.

Disability Pride Month traces its origins to the first Disability Pride Day held in Boston in 1990, the same year the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. This landmark legislation has been instrumental in protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in all areas of public life, including healthcare.

In Chicago, Disability Pride Month is celebrated with various events and activities that highlight the achievements of individuals with disabilities and advocate for greater accessibility and inclusion. Our city has a rich history of disability activism, and local organizations such as Access Living and Great Lakes ADA Center play a vital role in advancing disability rights and providing resources and support to the community.

Healthcare is a critical area where the principles of Disability Inclusion are put into practice. Ensuring that healthcare facilities are accessible and that individuals with disabilities receive equitable care is essential to promoting overall health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals with disabilities are more likely to experience health disparities, including higher rates of chronic conditions and difficulties accessing healthcare services. Addressing these disparities requires a concerted effort to improve accessibility, provide specialized training for healthcare professionals, and implement inclusive healthcare practices.

At UI Health, we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can receive the care they need, regardless of their abilities. We are committed to improving accessibility in our facilities and ensuring that our healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and personalized care to individuals with disabilities.

To learn more about Disability Pride Month and the history of disability rights, we encourage you to explore the following resources:

• Access Living
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Disability and Health
• Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities

For more information about our services and commitment to accessibility, please contact us directly at UIHealthDiversity@uic.edu.

Archives

Read more about how UI Health recognizes the history, achievements, and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

• Disability Pride Month 2022
• Disability Pride Month 2023