Disability Pride Month: Reflections from Wheelchair Users

July marks Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements, contributions and experiences of people with disabilities. It's a moment to honor the diversity and richness that individuals with disabilities bring to our communities, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face.

Many wheelchair users took to social media to express their thoughts on Disability Pride Month. Here are some reflections.

"My [disability] pride stems from understanding, courage, confidence and the ability to share these with others."

"July is #DisabilityPrideMonth, and I've seen many proud posts raising awareness and challenging the stigma around disability. This aligns with my belief that everyone has their own unique purpose in life, which isn't defined by their abilities," says Wesley Hamilton.

"I discovered my purpose through my disability, however I've always had a heart for service. Reflecting on the awakening I experienced after acquiring my disability, I'm filled with immense gratitude."

"As I see everyone's posts this month, I'm reminded of the strength and resilience within our community."

"It's been almost 7 years since I became quadriplegic, and what a journey it's been. This month is all about acceptance, awareness, and celebrating the achievements of the disability community. Remember, 'Nothing about us without us.' Let's continue to raise awareness, advocate for a more inclusive world, and spread disabled joy," says Erin Field.

"I know this will ruffle feathers but I don't celebrate disability pride month."

My disability is something that happened to me and not something I define myself by, I look at my disability as a tragedy I've overcome. It shattered my whole world and took so much away. I have severe pain, my hands don't work, I can't go to the bathroom on my own or get dressed on my own," says Rachelle Chapman.

"I'm all about disability awareness month. We need to bring acceptance, access and understanding."

"Disability pride is understanding disability is an integral part of the human condition."

"Collectively, we (disabled people) hold a diverse array of stories, hell-bent resilience, softness, power, stories to tell from our bellies, talents, style, humor and dreams. And though we all hold disability in common, our individual stories branch into a variety of perspectives contextualizing the simple narrative our community has unfairly been dealt," says Kam Redlawsk.

"It's a part of me that has helped shape me into the person I am today."

"Disability Pride, to me, is a way to honor our history, strength and resiliency, achievements, and experiences. I'm not ashamed of my disability, and I believe no one should be," says Megan Hammond.

"I can be honest and say I don't actually feel very proud just sad and frustrated."

"It's not enough to complain. It's not enough to make memes. It's not enough to do what we always have been doing and thinking that that is what's going to work. Fun fact it hasn't," says Luticha Andre Doucette.

"Let's celebrate, advocate for, and uplift disabled communities everywhere this month and all year round."

"Happy Disability Pride Month, angels!" says Bri Scalesse.

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