July is Disability Pride Month, and people across the country celebrate the month with events like the Police Torch Run, which raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics in Northern California. I’ve participated in the Torch Run several times in the past, and this time I’ll be running alongside law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes, carrying the flame of hope to the opening ceremonies in Santa Cruz.
This year’s local Torch Run is hosted by the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and will travel through a number of South Bay Area cities, with a stop near Blaney Plaza in downtown Saratoga.
July was chosen as Disability Pride Month because the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed on July 26, 1990. The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in areas including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications, and access to state and local government services.
Disability Pride Month is a time of reflection, celebration and advocacy for the disability community. It has great significance for people with disabilities, their families and society at large. The month-long observance is not only about recognizing the challenges people with disabilities face, but also their strengths, achievements and contributions to society.
At its core, Disability Pride Month is a powerful affirmation of the inherent worth and dignity of people with disabilities. It provides a platform for people to embrace their identities, reject prejudice, and celebrate their unique experiences. For many in the disability community, the month is a reminder that their differences are not flaws to be overcome, but rather aspects of their identity to be respected and celebrated.
As we commemorate Disability Pride Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive world, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and fully participate in society.
Yang Zhao is the mayor of Saratoga.
