Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
UI Health Celebrates Diversity
Inclusion Calendar
UI Health CHAMPIONS
Black History Month
Women's History Month
Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
LGBTQ+ Pride Month
Disability Pride Month
Hispanic Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month
Arab American Heritage Month
Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate and embrace the achievements, contributions, and experiences of individuals with disabilities. Embracing Disability Pride Month also gives us a unique opportunity to dismantle the stigma surrounding disabilities. This celebration enables a deeper understanding of the experiences of individuals living with disabilities and reinforces the importance of their inclusion as valued members of our communities.
It is important to remember that on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, marking a significant milestone in promoting equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. This landmark event also coincided with the first Disability Pride Day, which further emphasized the importance of celebrating disability pride and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Office of Diversity and Health Podcast
This year, UI Health is honored to provide a platform for our employees and staff with disabilities to share their experiences on a new episode of the Office of Diversity and Community Health Equity Podcast. In this episode of our podcast, we are joined by Dr. Kristi L. Kirschner and Anthony Heard, Director of Care Management as they share their experiences with disabilities, discuss what disability pride means to them, and provide insight on destigmatizing people with disabilities and what this month means to them.
Ways to get Involved & Celebrate
There are several ways individuals can celebrate Disability Pride Month and get involved in promoting inclusivity and disability rights. Here are some suggestions:
- Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about different disabilities, their challenges, and the experiences of individuals with disabilities. Read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts that offer insights into the disability community.
- Reflect on your own attitudes and beliefs: Take time to reflect on any unconscious biases or ableism you may hold. Challenge these biases and strive to create a more inclusive and accepting mindset.
- Attend events: Look for local or virtual events happening during Disability Pride Month such as panel discussions, workshops, art exhibits, or performances.
- Support disability organizations: Consider donating your time, resources, or funds to organizations that advocate for disability rights and provide support to individuals with disabilities.
- Support disabled artists and entrepreneurs: Seek out and support disabled artists, authors, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
- Engage in conversations: Participate in conversations about disability pride and rights. Share your knowledge, experiences, and perspectives to foster understanding and empathy.
Archives
Learn more about how UI Health is providing opportunities to remove the stigma around living with a disability.
