A Bridge to Independence’s Post

It’s Disability pride month and I just want to remind people that: Disability pride is a movement that promotes the recognition and celebration of people with disabilities, emphasizing their value, accomplishments, and how they enrich to society. It challenges traditional perceptions of disability, which often view disability through a lens of pity, dependency, and limitations. Instead, disability pride advocates for a perspective that recognizes disability as a natural part of human diversity. The importance of disability pride lies in its ability to foster a more inclusive and equitable society. Celebrating disability, challenges stigma and discrimination, helping to shift societal attitudes from viewing disability as a deficit to recognizing it as a unique and valuable aspect of the human experience. This encourages the development of policies and environments that are accessible and accommodating to all, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of life. It encourages self-acceptance and self-advocacy, enabling people to assert their rights and needs confidently as well as developing self worth and self care. When individuals with disabilities take pride in their identity, they are more likely to pursue opportunities, engage in their communities, and advocate for necessary changes. Disability pride highlights the contributions of individuals with disabilities, showcasing their talents, achievements, and perspectives. This recognition is vital for breaking down stereotypes and demonstrating that people with disabilities are not defined by their impairments but by their abilities. Disability pride is the way to create a world that values and includes everyone, regardless of their abilities. ——————————————— I’m Elizabeth a disabled #livedexperience #mentalhealth #trainer policy analyst and writer who wants community and independent living to work for everyone. I talk about #mentalhealth, #wellbeing in the #community and #workplace. ——————————————— What better than a pic of me to illustrate a disabled person with an invisible disability! Pic of Elizabeth wearing a colourful scarf, glasses and a black coat smiling. Behind me is a brick wall.

Celebrating National Disability Independence Day Today, July 26th, we at Eastridge celebrate National Disability Independence Day, marking the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This groundbreaking legislation has paved the way for transformative change, promoting accessibility and equal rights for individuals with disabilities. This legislation was transformative as it was the first of its kind to set up standards in the recruiting, interviewing, hiring and accommodation process for individuals with physical and mental disabilities and began the normalization of hiring and accommodating a significant population who had otherwise been excluded from employment. The ADA's passage in 1990 was a critical step forward in our ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equality. At Eastridge, we proudly uphold these values by fostering an accessible and welcoming environment for all. As we honor this significant day, let's reaffirm our dedication to inclusivity and continue to advocate for the rights and independence of people with disabilities. Together, we can build a more accessible and equitable world. #NationalDisabilityIndependenceDay #Accessibility #InclusionMatters #Eastridge

Happy Disability Pride Month! This is a great opportunity to think about how your organisation represents people with disabilities. At the Valuable 500, we have worked with a diverse group of disability advocates and experts to create 6 key principals for authentic disability representation. No matter what stage your organisation is at on its journey to disability representation, this guide is for you! So what is disability representation? It is 'the systematic and genuine portrayal of disability across all media, communications, and consumer touchpoints. For this to happen, disabled employees must be recruited, supported, and given opportunities to progress at every stage of the process.' Click the link below and get moving on your journey of authentic representation. #RepresentationMatters #DisabilityPrideMonth #DisabilityPride #DisabilityRepresentation https://lnkd.in/eCZUC7-y

July is Disability Pride Month. Disability is far too often used as an excuse to treat disabled children and parents as inherently unfit. We reject narratives that treat youth disability as a problem to be solved or managed. Disabled youth—like all youth—must receive the support they need within their homes and their communities rather than in pathologizing, carceral, congregate settings. We recognize and celebrate the many Black and Brown and trans and queer activists who founded and are at the forefront of the disability justice movement—a movement that pushes us to examine our beliefs about disabled people and to work toward a future where communities center cross-disability access that meets people where they are and provides the supports they need to thrive. We recognize that to truly make the aims of this movement a reality, we must embrace disability justice as a framework for transformation. Policies and budgets nationwide and at the state and local level must increase access and opportunity for people with disabilities. We must also examine the role of racial capitalism in creating and upholding systems that value people based on their ability to produce rather than on their inherent worth as people. We commit as an organization to fight for that future in our work, and to challenge ourselves internally to be an accessible, inclusive, and affirming work environment for people with disabilities.

🌟 Celebrating Disability Pride Month! 🌟 Disability Pride Month is celebrated in July to honor the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990, a landmark law that prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities and paved the way for greater inclusion and accessibility in all areas of life. This month is a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, promote visibility, and foster a sense of pride and empowerment within the disability community. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to become the vice president of our Employee Resource Group ADAPPT (Alliance of Disability Advocates Pursuing Progress Together). This group is focused on creating and fostering an environment focused on recruitment, retention, and development of employees with disabilities while serving as advocates for employees and allies in the disability community. I have learned so much from my fellow leadership board, our incredible members and community partners. At its core, disability encompasses such a wide range of impairments, limitations, and barriers that can affect a person's physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental health. These conditions may be visible or invisible, permanent or temporary, and they can vary greatly in their impact on an individual's life. However, it's crucial to move beyond mere definitions and consider disability within the context of social, cultural, and environmental factors. Disability is not solely about individual impairments; it's equally about the interaction between these impairments and the barriers present in society. As we continue to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in our communities, let's remember that our understanding of disability must be inclusive, evolving, and shaped by the voices and experiences of those affected. Together, we can build a world where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique talents. Georgia Power Company is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity is not just a buzzword for us; it's integral to our success and innovation. I challenge you all to use this month to celebrate the accomplishments of individuals with disabilities, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for accessibility and equal opportunities. Together, we can build a more inclusive world where every person can thrive. #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityPrideMonth

November is National Disability Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding of disability issues. Established in 2010, this month serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of creating inclusive communities. Historically, disability awareness has evolved significantly. In the past, individuals with disabilities were often marginalised and excluded from society. Today, we celebrate diversity and strive to remove barriers that hinder equal participation. This month emphasises the progress made while acknowledging the work still required to achieve true equality. Disability Awareness Month promotes education and empathy. By encouraging conversations about disabilities, we can challenge stereotypes and misconceptions that persist in society. It highlights the contributions that individuals with disabilities make in various fields, advocating for their right to live fulfilling lives free from discrimination. In this spirit, businesses and organisations are urged to adopt inclusive practices and implement policies that support disability rights. A society that values inclusivity not only empowers individuals but also enriches communities by harnessing the unique strengths of all its members. This month, consider how you can contribute to a more inclusive society. Advocacy, education, and allyship are powerful tools for change. #DisabilityAwareness #InclusionMatters #Empowerment #BreakBarriers

Together with our partners in the development and disability sector, ADDC is holding the Australian Government to account ahead of their upcoming International Disability Equity and Rights strategy (IDEARS). People with disabilities are among the most marginalised group in any setting, and an alarming 700 million people across the Indo-Pacific has a disability. We say this isn’t good enough. We have to do more to support the millions of people with disabilities in our region to participate in their communities, free from barriers, and realise their human rights.     Chair of ADDC Executive Committee, Christina Parasyn, says “Only 50 per cent of Australian aid advances disability equity. We must reach higher and ensure equity across the whole aid program. IDEARS is the Australian Government’s opportunity to shift the dial on disability equity in the region, champion rights and work in partnership with people with disabilities.     Join us in calling on more action and greater commitment to advancing disability equity and rights for people with disabilities across the Indo-Pacific.     As Christina says, “The time is now for bold commitments in Australian aid.”  👉 https://bit.ly/3V2Kfdc

🩵 Celebrating Disability Pride Month! 🩵 Every July, Disability Pride Month shines a spotlight on the identities and cultures of people with disabilities, honouring their achievements, and acknowledging their struggles. Disability Pride Month is a time dedicated to shifting perspectives on disability, embracing it as a natural aspect of human diversity. It’s about amplifying visibility, breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a more inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. 🦾 If you’re wondering ‘why July?,’ it's because July holds special significance as it marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. The ADA was a pivotal step in ensuring equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. Disabilities are not only physical and visible to others, but can also be mental and internal. It is important to recognize that while disabilities are an integral part of a person’s identity, it's not their only identity and it doesn't define a person. At Spare, we will be learning and celebrating Disability Pride through hosting a learning session in partnership with our event partner Wavy, called “Creating Inclusive Spaces - Disability & Mental Health Awareness,” with community practitioner and educator Maurice Wilkins. It's essential to acknowledge how transit and transportation technology significantly impact people with disabilities. By creating accessible and inclusive transportation options, we can enhance mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This aligns with Spare’s commitment to inclusivity and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to navigate their communities with dignity, ease and joy!  🚌 Additional resource to deepen our understanding on how transit and technology impact people with disabilities: ✨ https://lnkd.in/gzSxcpzD

Happy #DisabilityPrideMonth! Check out this video for some basic facts about disabilities, disability history, and being an advocate for people with disabilities!

🌐 The 14th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is currently underway in New York! As the leading global summit on disability rights, it's a vital platform for governments, organizations, and advocates to share advances and discuss ongoing challenges in the realm of disability empowerment. 🎉 Marking a decade since the CRPD's adoption, this event echoes a deeper commitment by nations worldwide to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the core principle of "leaving no one behind." ✨ At Path 2 Life Care, we view this as not just an opportunity but a call to action. We've been witnessing first hand the positive shifts toward more inclusive services, and we're keen to hear Australia's contributions and insights during these pivotal discussions. There have been strides in inclusive education, accessible transportation, and disability-inclusive employment, reflecting a growing trend that mirrors global search interests and scholarly discussions over the past year. 💬 But what does this mean for us and for the individuals we serve daily? It means empowering everyone to access opportunities equally. It's about creating environments where persons with disabilities are actively involved in crafting solutions that affect their lives and communities. 🚀 Let's discuss: - What progressive trends in disability rights have you noticed in your area? - How can organizations like ours further harness such global platforms for local benefit? 📌 We stand with the global community in promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities. Join us in this transformative journey. #DisabilityRights #CRPD2023 #InclusionMatters #SDGs #Path2LifeCare #Accessibility #InclusiveEducation #Empowerment Let's keep the momentum going. Your thoughts and experiences can guide and inspire others! 💡📈