July is Disability Pride Month. People first celebrated Disability Pride as a single day in 1990 to commemorate the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In 2015, it became a month-long observance to honor the disability community, raise awareness, and promote inclusivity and acceptance. 

The Importance of Disability Pride Month 

Disability Pride Month is part of a broader movement actively changing the way society views disability and how we discuss it. The goal is to radically shift thoughts surrounding a marginalized group and encourage individuals to ‘come as they are,’ recognizing that their differences are integral to their identity and deserve acknowledgment and celebration, rather than shame or discrimination. The ADA outlines specific objectives, and this movement aims to advance rights and continue fulfilling them. 

Historical Context 

The Signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990

Before July 26, 1990, few laws promoted access to employment opportunities and public accommodations for people with disabilities. Lawmakers designed the ADA to prohibit discrimination based on disability in employment and education, ensure equal access to government and public services, require accommodations in public transportation, and provide aid for telecommunications.

ADA Amendments Act of 2008

In 2008, President George W. Bush signed the ADA Amendments Act. The amendment included the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to interpret the initial 1990 law regarding discrimination in employment. It also broadened the definition of disability, granting more Americans expanded legal rights.

Advocacy and Legal Representation 

Ensuring Justice and Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities

Nyman Turkish is proud to serve individuals with disabilities across America. The ADA protects the rights of Americans with disabilities, and our firm actively represents and advocates for them. Thanks to the ADA, individuals facing challenges due to a disability have equal access to education, employment, and public accommodations. 

“Our firm is dedicated to giving a voice to those who would otherwise be silenced, fiercely advocating for the disabled to ensure they receive the justice and opportunities they deserve. We are proud to stand with the disability community, working together to create a more inclusive and equitable society,” said Jason Turkish, President and Managing Partner of Nyman Turkish.

Recognizing Historical and Ongoing Issues  

In defining the ADA’s purpose, Congress recognizes that disabilities should not deter a person’s full participation in all aspects of society. However, many individuals with disabilities still face barriers to full participation. Historically, society has often isolated and segregated people with disabilities, and despite some progress, such discrimination remains a serious and widespread social issue. 

Celebrating Life Beyond Impairments 

Disability Pride Month offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions to society of people with disabilities while also simply celebrating life, regardless of impairments. 

How to Support and Advocate for the Disabled Community

It is also a time to neutralize the negative connotations that people associate with the language used when talking about the disability community. Although the fight for all that the ADA promised remains ongoing, the act solidified the disability rights movements and got the ball rolling for empowering Americans with disabilities. Together, we can make a difference by demanding equality and promoting inclusivity and acceptance. 

For more information on how Nyman Turkish advocates for the disabled community, please explore our website.