McCollum, Calvert, Adams, Thompson Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Disability Pride Month

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN), Congressman Ken Calvert (R-CA), Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-NC), and Congressman Glenn “G.T.” Thompson (R-PA) have introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing July as Disability Pride Month. The resolution also celebrates the contributions of Americans with disabilities and highlights the need to prevent exclusion and discrimination on the basis of disability.

“The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transformed everyday life for millions of people across our nation,” Congresswoman McCollum said. “Though Disability Pride has long been celebrated each July by the disability community, I am introducing a bipartisan resolution to formally recognize this month on the federal level. Establishing Disability Pride Month will raise awareness that more work needs to be done to advance disability rights, improve visibility, and increase accessibility. With this resolution, we celebrate a vibrant community that contributes so much to our nation’s rich diversity.”

“The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was a monumental piece of legislation that established protections for millions of Americans living with a disability,” said Congressman Calvert. “It is critical we recognize the history and achievements of the disabled community by designating July as Disability Pride Month. I appreciate the work of my colleagues, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Glenn Thompson, and Rep. Alma Adams, in helping to establish July as Disability Pride Month.”

“In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law to give people with disabilities equal opportunities that didn’t exist before,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Disability Pride Month was first celebrated in 2015 to commemorate that achievement, celebrate people with disabilities, and acknowledge the work that still must be done to increase accessibility and equity in every facet of American life. I’m proud to join with my colleagues to support this resolution.”

“Recognizing July as Disability Pride Month provides an opportunity to increase awareness, education, inclusion, and accessibility,” Congressman Thompson said. “Thirty-three years ago the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, protecting millions of Americans from discrimination based on their disability. This resolution recognizes the important contributions Americans with disabilities make to our society, and I will continue to advocate for those with disabilities so they feel valued and respected.”

Joining as original co-sponsors of the resolution are: Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV), Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Rep. Andre Carson (D-IN), Del. Norton (D-DC), Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX).

The full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 61,000,000 adults in the United States have disabilities;
Whereas the United States Census Bureau reports that more than 3,000,000 children in the United States have disabilities;
Whereas the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) was signed into law on July 26, 1990;
Whereas individuals with a disability remain at an increased risk of experiencing discrimination, isolation, and inequities;
Whereas individuals with disabilities are vital and make meaningful contributions to the arts, science, health care, technology, sports, education, law, and many more sectors; and
Whereas ‘‘Disability Pride Month'' is celebrated in July by people across the United States: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
1) expresses the support for the designation of July as ‘‘Disability Pride Month''; and
(2) calls on the people of the United States, interest groups, and affected people to—
(a) observe ‘‘Disability Pride Month'' with appropriate celebrations and activities; and
(b) take an active role in preventing the exclusion of, and discrimination against, individuals with disabilities.

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