![]() ![]() In 2019 Ann Magill, an author with cerebral palsy, designed a flag with red, blue, white, gold and green zigzag stripes. The celebration of Disability Pride is such a celebration - marked by marches, parades, educational efforts and other symbols of community celebration. There was a desire to highlight the diverse gifts, cultures and ways of being that those with disabilities inhabit and to affirm all of these as assets. While commemorations of the ADA have taken place in various ways since its passing, many felt that a more robust celebration of the disability community was in order. The legislation was amended to expand its applicability in 2008, moving it into U.S. This historic legislation sought to protect the rights of people with disabilities in American society. The history of Disability Pride Month begins with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which passed in July 1990. How do such diverse collectives foster a common sense of belonging? Often this is through meaningful unifying symbols such as language, spaces and practices. This means that there is no one way to be disabled or LGBTQIA+. Additionally, all individuals exist at the intersection of multiple identity markers. Some in our own Panther family identify as being both disabled and queer while others may only identify as a member of one of these communities. These communities are not mutually exclusive. Those in the LGBTQIA+ community experience otherness along the lines of social definitions of gender, sexuality and romance. Those in the disability community generally share experiences of marginalization when it comes to the ways that society defines ability. The Disability and LGBTQIA+ designations represent community collectives, drawing together people with various experiences under a common umbrella of identity. Celebrations like these are important to our Chapman community as we recognize Panthers from both these groups and commit to growing a sense of belonging for all. LGBTQ Pride month closed with June and the start of July welcomed us into a celebration of Disability Pride Month. Brittania Gentis and Kevin Nguyen-Stockbridge ![]()
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