Pasadena Celebrates Disability Pride Month, Highlighting Inclusion and Awareness

The City of Pasadena is marking July as Disability Pride Month, recognizing the achievements of people with disabilities and promoting inclusivity. The celebration coincides with the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, passed in July 1990.

Disability Pride Month aims to increase visibility and awareness of the positive pride felt by individuals with disabilities, the largest minority group in the United States. Pasadena officials are emphasizing the importance of creating a community where all residents, regardless of ability, can thrive.

The city has implemented several initiatives to enhance accessibility and inclusion. These include appointing an Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator, offering adaptive recreation programs, and providing accessible transportation services through Pasadena Transit and Dial-A-Ride.

Pasadena’s commitment extends to its public spaces and services. The local library, in association with the Library of Congress, offers Braille and audio books, while a sensory storytime program caters to children with autism or sensory challenges.

The city also supports businesses in becoming more accessible. Resources are available to help companies comply with Americans with Disabilities Act regulations, and the EmployABILITY Business Grant program encourages long-term employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

To symbolize its commitment, Pasadena has adopted the Disability Pride Flag, designed by Ann Magill in 2019 and updated in 2021. The flag features a charcoal grey background, representing victims of ableist abuse and violence, with a diagonal band of muted colors.

Each stripe on the flag represents different types of disabilities: red for physical, gold for neurodivergence, white for invisible and undiagnosed, blue for psychiatric, and green for sensory disabilities.

The Accessibility and Disability Commission advises the City Council on issues affecting people with disabilities. Additionally, the city provides information on Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority accessibility services.

As Disability Pride Month continues, Pasadena’s efforts reflect a broader movement towards creating more inclusive communities. The celebration, first officially recognized in 2015 for the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, serves as both a recognition of progress and a call to address remaining barriers.