I am very happy to learn of Disability Pride Month! I actually forgot that July is recognized as Disability Pride, and sorry to say that I’m not around a lot of people that share the same sentiment. It is sad that we, as a Disability population, still are fighting for social acceptance and to live as normal as possible. I never thought I would be an advocate for disabilities, but in the last few years, I realize this is my calling.  

We still live with stigmas. People still judge people in how we look or act. Sometimes people with disabilities judge other people with disabilities more harshly. As if to say, at least we are not as disabled as those disabled people. Transportation for us needs to be better. For us that cannot drive, we should have more flexible options. We should have a wide variety of friendships and fulfillment like anyone else. Our strengths should be celebrated and our weaknesses should be understood and not shamed and humiliated. 

As a person with a disability, I have some insights in what I think Disability Pride means to me. Being independent is very important as a disabled person. This does not mean not asking for help, but knowing when you need help. Asking for help is crucial. But also, you need boundaries. Don’t let people take advantage of you, or make you feel like their cause. People should respect you when you say no them. I believe living wherever you want to live is a fundamental right and it should be the same for people with disabilities. Don’t let society or your family and friends force you into anything. Fight for your personal anatomy. And lastly, have friends that treat you like an equal. You don’t need friends that treat you like their your boss or your parents. Disability Pride means you own your disability. It does not own you!