Celebrating National Disability Pride Month: Honoring Resilience and Advocating for Change

July marks National Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This month-long observance goes beyond commemoration, serving as a powerful call to amplify the voices of people with disabilities and champion their rights and dignity. The Denver Basic Income Project (DBIP) highlights the transformative impact of economic support, showing how cash can empower individuals and strengthen communities.

The Significance of Disability Pride

With over 70 million Americans—1 in 4 people—living with a disability in 2022, according to the CDC, the disability community is a diverse and vital part of society. Disabilities shape how individuals navigate mobility, sensory experiences, or cognitive tasks, yet their contributions often go unrecognized. National Disability Pride Month celebrates their strength, emphasizing their essential role in workplaces, neighborhoods, and beyond.

The Connection Between Disability and Homelessness

People with disabilities face unique challenges that can lead to homelessness. Inaccessible workplaces and discriminatory hiring practices often limit job opportunities, creating financial instability. The high costs of healthcare and specialized services further strain resources, making it difficult to maintain stability. Cuts to safety nets like Medicaid or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), coupled with strict eligibility rules, can leave individuals without the support needed to secure stable housing.

A Participant Perspective

Moriah Rodriguez was evicted from her Denver home in 2022. Her main source of income was federal assistance due to a disability caused by being hit by a drunk driver. Her daughter told her about the Denver Basic Income Project (DBIP) and urged her to apply. Despite being skeptical and hesitant, Moriah applied and was selected to participate in the program.

Moriah is now enrolled in school and studying to receive her GED. She has become a major advocate for DBIP at several national conferences where she speaks about her experience with DBIP and furthering guaranteed income in Colorado. Moriah now sits on the Denver Basic Income Project Board of Directors.

“It’s helped so much in my life... this pilot program could be a transformational thing for people throughout the city. ”

— Moriah Rodriguez

Guaranteed Income as a Path to Stability

Programs like the Denver Basic Income Project (DBIP) offer a critical solution. With nearly half of DBIP participants (49.3%) living with a disability, the impact of unconditional cash transfers is clear. These payments enable individuals to cover essentials like rent, medical expenses, or adaptive equipment, fostering independence and reducing the risk of homelessness. By trusting people to prioritize their needs, guaranteed income programs empower participants to build more secure lives.

Colorado’s Commitment to Disability Rights

The Colorado Disability Opportunity Office (CDOO) represents a bold step forward. By focusing on accessible services, inclusive policies, and economic opportunities, this office works to ensure that individuals with disabilities across the state have the resources and support they need to thrive.

According to the office’s website, their mission is “…to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the tools, opportunities, and empowerment to reach their highest potential and thrive in our communities.”

Denver’s Advocates for Change

In Denver, organizations like the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition (CCDC) lead the charge for equity and justice. Through advocacy and resources, they empower individuals with disabilities to live fuller, more connected lives. Their work underscores the importance of community-driven change.

A Call to Action for Disability Pride

National Disability Pride Month is a celebration of resilience and a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality. It’s a time to honor the disability community’s achievements while pushing for a world where accessibility and inclusion are standard. This July, join in celebrating and advocating for a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.