July is Disability Pride Month
As we step into July, it’s time to celebrate Disability Pride Month—a special time to honor the history, culture, and achievements of individuals with disabilities. This month is all about visibility, awareness, supporting one another, and, most importantly, celebrating our collective abilities.
Disability Pride began gaining momentum in the 1960s and 1970s when advocates started pushing for equal rights and accessibility. Activists began advocating for equal rights and accessibility, leading to significant milestones like the 504 Sit-in in 1977. This historic event involved activists occupying a federal building in San Francisco to demand the enforcement of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
(Camp Summit 1978: formerly Camp Soroptimist)
A huge milestone in this movement was the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law on July 26th, 1990. This legislation ensured equal rights for individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including employment, education, and public accommodations. The first Disability Pride celebration took place in Boston in 1990, coinciding with the passage of the ADA. Since then, Disability Pride Month has grown into a month-long celebration that encourages individuals to embrace their identities and advocate for their rights.
At Camp Summit, we believe every month is Disability Pride Month! We take pride in creating an accessible and barrier-free environment, always celebrating our campers’ abilities. As we honor our history, we continue to advocate for disability pride, not just in July, but throughout the entire year.
Camp Summit’s legacy began as Camp Soroptimist in 1947. The founding of our camp was a direct response to a young girl who was turned away from a traditional camp because of her disability. This pivotal moment fueled Camp Summit’s mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the joys of camp, regardless of his or her abilities.
(Camp Summit 1940’s: formerly Camp Soroptimist)
(Camp Summit 1940’s: formerly Camp Soroptimist)
To celebrate our campers' incredible abilities and honor Disability Pride Month, we have some exciting events planned! Come cool off during one of the hottest months of the year with some Jeni’s ice cream. When ordering on July 17th, 25% of all profits will go to benefit Camp Summit.
If you’re interested in learning more about Camp Summit, we will be working at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee on July 22nd. This coffee shop employs individuals with disabilities, and we’re excited to support their mission. Come stop by chat with our team, learn more about Camp Summit and grab a delicious drink.
Let’s make this time an occasion of joy, learning, and celebration—in July and beyond! Happy Disability Pride Month, everyone!
