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Disability Pride Month was first celebrated in the UK in 2015 as a focus for disabled people to come together and celebrate, as well as fostering conversations around how to be better allies.
As a recognised Disability Confident Leader, North Somerset Council continues to demonstrate leadership in promoting disability inclusion and supporting individuals with disabilities in the workplace. This accolade highlights the council’s dedication to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
One in five people in the UK live with a disability. Disability can be visible or hidden. In 2002, finally it became against the law to discriminate against people based on their disability. Now, public authorities like councils, public officers and councillors have an important duty to eliminate discrimination and foster good relations between people with and without disabilities.
To mark Disability Pride Month, libraries across North Somerset are featuring special displays of books focusing on disability themes, written by authors with disabilities, and showcasing stories that highlight the experiences and contributions of people with disabilities. These displays aim to educate the community, promote understanding, and celebrate the rich diversity within North Somerset.
Cllr Jenna Ho Marris, North Somerset Council's executive member for equalities and diversity said: "Disability Pride Month is an important time for us to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities in our community. As a Disability Confident Leader, North Somerset Council is committed to ensuring that everyone feels valued and included.
"Do I think more can be done? Of course yes! For example, I am pushing for better accessible housing and workplaces, at a local and national level. A group of us councillors and officers recently went on a visually impaired walk of Weston town centre - and it highlighted for me the everyday challenges that someone can face. We can learn to see the barriers and tear them down where we can, this is not something the council can do alone, so I invite businesses, voluntary organisations, communities to join, all of us can do our bit."
Kate and Dave, chairs of the council's Disabled Staff Group added: "Disability Pride Month offers an opportunity to celebrate and challenge stigma that too many people with disabilities still face. This is also a time to raise awareness for the many people with non-visible disabilities. We are excited to see our community come together in celebration and solidarity."
The chairs of the council's LGBTQ+ staff group said: "Disability Pride Month celebrates the vast diversity of the disabled community. Though it will mean something different to each person, we are proud to support our disabled colleagues, whether or not they are members of the LGBTQ+ staff group. There are many intersections between the disabled and LGBTQ+ communities, especially among neurodivergent individuals, and we work alongside our Disabled Staff Forum to ensure we all feel safe and included. As disabled people ourselves, it is a joy and privilege to be able to celebrate Disability Pride Month.”
North Somerset Council encourages residents to get involved with the North Somerset Disabled Access Group (DAG), a local group of volunteers dedicated to working with the council on access matters. DAG plays a crucial role in influencing local projects and ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and respected.
For more information about Disability Pride Month activities, including library displays and events, or to learn how you can get involved with the Disabled Access Group, please visit the North Somerset Council website.