The Anniversary of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
Disability Pride Month is celebrated worldwide, typically in July. Initially a day of celebration, Disability Pride has expanded into a month-long event.
The celebration began in the United States to honor the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990. People with disabilities represent 15% of the global population, encompassing all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.
Disability Pride Month is a time for reflection, education, and advocacy, and honors the identities, cultures, and contributions of people with disabilities. It aims to change perceptions of disability, eliminate stigma, and promote the understanding that disability is a natural aspect of human diversity. This month provides an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to unite and celebrate their uniqueness while raising awareness about the ongoing challenges they face in achieving equal treatment.
For me, living with a spinal cord injury for 25 years, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and strength of the diverse-abled community. This month, I want to shed light on the challenges, triumphs, and the unyielding spirit that celebrates life after a spinal cord injury.
The day of my injury is etched in my memory with a clear vision. One moment, I was living my life without a second thought about my mobility; the next, I found myself in the dirt grappling to take a single breath. The initial shock was overwhelming, and the uncertainty of the future loomed large. However, amid the fear and confusion, a flicker of determination began to take root in the form of my big, blue toe. You can read more about my painted toes here.
Living with a spinal cord injury is also confronting a world largely designed for able-bodied individuals. From inaccessible buildings to societal attitudes, the barriers are both physical and mental. Disability Pride Month advocates for more inclusive and accessible environments, recognizing the value and potential of every individual, regardless of their physical abilities.
The diverse-abled community is a source of immense strength and solidarity. It’s a club you do not plan to be a part of, but once you are, you are a welcomed member! Connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of disability has been a lifeline for me. Whether through support groups, online forums, or adaptive sports programs, we celebrate each other’s successes and provide a shoulder to lean on during tough times.
Disability Pride Month is a reminder that advocacy is essential for creating meaningful change. It’s about amplifying our voices, challenging misconceptions, and pushing for policies that promote accessibility and inclusion. This is the main reason I’m on the Adversity Into Adventure World Tour! It’s about educating others—sharing our stories to encourage understanding and change. By raising awareness, we can dismantle stereotypes and build a society that truly embraces diversity.
Living with a spinal cord injury has taught me the true meaning of resilience and purpose. It’s about finding joy in unexpected places, and never giving up, even when the road ahead seems impassable.
I invite you to join me in recognizing the strength and potential of the diverse-abled community. Let’s continue to advocate for a world where accessibility and inclusion are the norms. Together, we can create a future where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive!
Best in Health,
Aaron Baker
I have been paralyzed from the waist down since 2013. I’ve been steadily gaining weight since then, and I’m starting to get self-conscious about it, especially since people already stare at me in my wheelchair. What are some exercises, things I can do to help me lose this extra weight?
