Disability Pride Month 2023

Disability Pride Month is an annual celebration of the disabled community’s achievements and resilience, and a recognition of disabled people’s identities and experiences. This month-long observance began after the groundbreaking piece of civil rights legislation – the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – was passed on July 26, 1990. Inspired by other pride movements, Disability Pride Month emerged as a platform to challenge ableist norms, foster understanding, and promote inclusivity. This month serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for disability rights, inclusion, and equality, while honoring the achievements and contributions of disabled individuals throughout history.

Disability Pride Month empowers disabled people to embrace their unique identities without shame or stigma. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, encouraging individuals to reclaim their narratives and reject ableist narratives that have historically marginalized disabled people.

 Disability Pride Month calls for a society that values accessibility as a fundamental human right.  It encourages a shift in societal attitudes towards disability, recognizing it not as a deficit but as a valuable aspect of human diversity. At Half Access, we advocate for physical and social spaces that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. By raising awareness, we aim to inspire individuals, bands, music venues, and policymakers to embrace inclusive practices and remove barriers that hinder participation in live music.

By inspiring action, challenging ableist norms, and fostering inclusivity, we can pave the way for a society that embraces and values every individual, not just for a month, but every day.