When disabilities rights activist Judy Heumann began her advocacy in the early 1970s, she wasn’t trying to build a movement. She was trying to live her life. Paralyzed by polio at 18 months, Heumann was initially barred from attending elementary school after administrators deemed her a “fire hazard.” She later successfully sued the New York City school system after it tried to deny her a teacher’s license due to her disabilities. Heumann was instrumental in getting the Americans with Disabilities Act passed on July 26, 1990, guaranteeing equal rights for individuals living with disabilities.
In July, Disability Pride Month celebrates the anniversary of the ADA’s passage and the work of activists like Heumann. The theme for 2024 is “We Want a Life Like Yours,” reflecting the disability community’s strive for equality.
“I encourage NYSUT members to celebrate Disability Pride Month by learning more about the history of the disabilities rights movement,” said J. Philippe Abraham, NYSUT secretary-treasurer whose office heads the union’s social justice initiatives. “Let’s foster a culture of inclusion where disability is viewed as just another aspect of human diversity.”
For James Chaney, a teaching assistant and Albany Public School United Employees member, the month is an opportunity to highlight the abilities of individuals living with disabilities. A wheelchair user since age 1 due to a spinal injury suffered in a car accident, Chaney makes it a point to be visible at school realizing that students “are learning from me onsite” since they see his wheelchair first.
“During class changes I go into the hallway and greet students … and I make it my job to show up to any and all school events,” he said noting that he’s also a member of the school’s equity team, which strives to promote understanding and acceptance. “It allows my students to see my challenges and to get to know me as an educator and an individual.”
Chaney, NYSUT’s 2024 School-Related Professional Member of the Year, also promotes ability by example, facilitating an after-school volleyball program, volunteering as a Special Olympics basketball coach and in the past playing sled ice hockey. “I also ride a motorcycle, a Can-Am Ryker three wheel,” said Chaney. “It’s important to bring awareness to and embrace different struggles so that change can come about for the better.”
Ways to celebrate Disability Pride Month include:
To learn more about Disability Pride Month, visit The Arc the nation’s largest community-based advocacy organization for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.