July is Disability Pride Month. Disability Pride Month calls us to honor and uplift the vibrant tapestry of experiences and contributions from people with disabilities. This month holds special significance as we commemorate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark legislation passed on July 26, 1990, that paved the way for greater accessibility and equality.
The journey began with a spark of recognition in Boston back in 1990, where the first Disability Pride Day ignited a movement of empowerment and visibility. Fourteen years later, Chicago hosted the inaugural Disability Pride Parade, marking a monumental step towards inclusivity and celebration of disability culture across the nation.
Today, Disability Pride Month stands as a beacon of empowerment, fostering environments where individuals with disabilities can embrace their identities proudly. It is a time to recognize that disability encompasses a rich spectrum of abilities, ages, races, ethnicities, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. With approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States living with a disability, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and resilience within our diverse community.
Intersectional Challenges
Historically, discussions around disability have often been exclusionary, focusing on a narrow definition of ability that fails to acknowledge the multifaceted identities of disabled individuals. This narrow perspective has marginalized BIPOC queer individuals with disabilities, whose experiences are compounded by systemic prejudices and discrimination rooted in race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status.
For BIPOC queer individuals with disabilities, navigating a world that fails to recognize their intersecting identities can lead to profound disenfranchisement. They face barriers that are not only physical but also social and systemic, perpetuating cycles of inequality and erasure. Addressing these intersectional challenges requires a shift towards inclusive discourse—one that acknowledges and affirms the unique experiences and perspectives of all individuals.
Why Inclusive Discourse Matters
Inclusive discourse challenges stereotypes and promotes a deeper understanding of the complexities of disability. It fosters empathy and dismantles ableism by centering narratives that reflect the diversity within the disability community. Representation in media and public spaces becomes a powerful tool for social change, as it showcases the resilience, creativity, and contributions of BIPOC queer individuals with disabilities.
Statistics underscore the importance of inclusive representation: globally, over 1 billion people live with some form of disability, making up approximately 15% of the world’s population. Despite this significant presence, disabled individuals face significant barriers to inclusion in various aspects of life, including employment, education, and public services.
Spotlight on BIPOC Queer Creatives
In the evolving landscape of media and entertainment, BIPOC queer creators within the disability community are not only making waves but also reshaping narratives with their groundbreaking work. These individuals bring a unique perspective that challenges stereotypes, celebrates diversity, and advocates for inclusivity across various platforms.
Here are ten remarkable BIPOC queer creators who exemplify the intersection of disability, race, and LGBTQ+ identities, using their voices and talents to drive meaningful change:
Andrea Dalzell
Andrea Dalzell, affectionately known as “The Seated Nurse,” is a trailblazer and disability rights advocate who made history as the first registered nurse in a wheelchair in New York State. Her journey into nursing began as a response to her own experiences with healthcare accessibility, where she noticed significant gaps in understanding and accommodation for disabled patients and professionals alike.
Beyond her groundbreaking role in healthcare, Andrea’s advocacy transcends traditional boundaries, focusing on broader disability rights issues that impact everyday life. She uses her platform not only to advocate for accessible healthcare practices but also to challenge societal perceptions of disability. Andrea’s work underscores the importance of representation and inclusion in the medical field, inspiring countless individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams and dismantle barriers to equality.
Raven Sutton
Raven Sutton is a prominent content creator and advocate for the Deaf community, recognized for her contributions in publications like the New York Times, Vogue Magazine, Daily Mail, and Buzzfeed. Through her influential presence on social media, Raven shares her personal journey and amplifies the voices of fellow Deaf individuals. Recently, she made history as the first Deaf contestant on Netflix’s competitive game show, The Circle. Raven’s mission is to foster change by shedding light on the unique challenges faced by Deaf people, including discrimination. She creates compelling content aimed at increasing understanding of the Deaf experience and advocating for greater inclusivity.
Jerron Herman
Jerron Herman is an acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and writer who has made significant strides in the arts as a Black queer creative with a disability. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age, Jerron has defied societal expectations and carved out a niche for himself in the world of dance, using his unique physicality to create captivating and thought-provoking performances. As a principal dancer with Heidi Latsky Dance, he has performed on prestigious stages such as the Lincoln Center and the Whitney Museum of American Art, showcasing his exceptional talent and challenging traditional notions of movement and ability. His work not only highlights the beauty of diverse bodies in motion but also advocates for greater inclusion and representation in the arts.
Jen Deerinwater
Jen Deerinwater is a prominent journalist, writer, and the founder of Crushing Colonialism, an organization dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices and challenging colonialist narratives. As a bisexual, Two-Spirit, disabled Cherokee woman, Jen’s work is deeply rooted in her identity and experiences, offering a powerful perspective on the intersections of disability, indigeneity, and queerness. She has contributed to various prestigious publications, including Truthout, Rewire.News, and The Advocate, where her incisive writing sheds light on the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. Jen’s work is not only informative but also transformative, inspiring others to recognize and challenge the pervasive impacts of colonialism and discrimination in our society.
Chella Man
Chella Man is a multifaceted artist, actor, and activist who has gained widespread recognition for their role in the DC Universe series Titans, where they portray Jericho, a deaf superhero. As a deaf, nonbinary, Jewish and Asian person of color, Chella’s diverse identity informs their work and fuels their passion for advocating for intersectional representation and accessibility in the arts and media. Their groundbreaking role in Titans not only breaks barriers for deaf and LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media but also highlights the importance of authentic storytelling. Beyond their acting career, Chella Man is a talented visual artist and a powerful voice in the activism community. Chella uses their platform to challenge societal norms and inspire others to embrace their identities authentically. Chella’s work has been featured in prominent outlets such as Teen Vogue, The New York Times, and Vogue, cementing their influence as a leading advocate for marginalized communities. Chella’s dedication to promoting visibility and understanding continues to make a profound impact on the arts and beyond.
Shayla Lawson
Shayla Lawson is an acclaimed author and poet whose work delves into the intricate themes of identity, race, and disability. With a unique voice that resonates with authenticity and depth, Shayla’s writing serves as a powerful tool for advocacy, illuminating the nuanced experiences of disabled individuals in a society that often marginalizes them. Her poetry and prose challenge stereotypes and offer a fresh perspective on the intersectionality of race and disability, celebrating the resilience and diversity within these communities.
In addition to her literary achievements, Shayla Lawson is a dedicated educator and speaker who uses her platform to promote inclusivity and social justice. Her work has been featured in various esteemed publications, and she has garnered praise for her ability to blend personal narrative with broader cultural commentary. Through her writing, Shayla not only raises awareness about the challenges faced by disabled individuals but also empowers others to embrace their identities and advocate for change.
Aaron Rose Philip
Aaron Rose Philip is a trailblazing model and media personality who has shattered barriers in the fashion industry with her groundbreaking work. As a Black, transgender woman with cerebral palsy, Aaron has become a powerful advocate for greater inclusivity and representation within the fashion world and beyond. Her presence on major runways and in high-profile campaigns challenges conventional beauty standards and paves the way for more diverse and inclusive representation in media and fashion.
Aaron Rose Philip’s journey from social media influencer to renowned model is a testament to her resilience and determination. She uses her platform to highlight the intersectionality of her identity and to empower individuals with disabilities to embrace their uniqueness. Aaron’s advocacy extends beyond the runway as she speaks out about the importance of accessibility, visibility, and acceptance for marginalized communities.
Jillian Mercado
Jillian Mercado is a renowned model and actress who has made significant strides in the fashion and entertainment industries. With her distinctive style and charismatic presence, she has worked with major brands such as Diesel, Nordstrom, and Beyoncé’s fashion line, and has appeared in popular TV shows like “The L Word: Generation Q.” As a disabled Latina, Jillian uses her visibility and platform to challenge traditional beauty standards and advocate for greater disability representation in fashion and media.
Jillian Mercado’s work goes beyond modeling and acting; she is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and diversity. Her efforts have paved the way for more accurate and empowering portrayals of disabled individuals in mainstream media. By sharing her journey and experiences, Jillian inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and strive for greater representation and accessibility in all areas of life.
Lady Francesca
Lady Francesca made history as the world’s first Black drag queen superstar with Down syndrome, captivating audiences with her magnetic performances and groundbreaking achievements. As a member of the internationally renowned drag troupe Drag Syndrome, Lady Francesca has become a powerful advocate for disability awareness and inclusivity within the drag community. Her presence on stage challenges societal norms and celebrates the beauty of diversity, inspiring countless individuals around the globe.
Drag Syndrome is an international drag troupe that has captivated audiences worldwide with their groundbreaking performances and unapologetic celebration of diversity. Comprised of talented drag artists with Down syndrome, Drag Syndrome challenges societal perceptions and promotes inclusivity within the drag community and beyond. Founded by London-based artist and curator Daniel Vais, Drag Syndrome quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to drag and its mission to empower individuals with Down syndrome. The troupe’s performances not only entertain but also serve as powerful statements on disability, identity, and the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.
Mia Mingus
Mia Mingus is a distinguished writer, educator, and community organizer who has made significant contributions to the fields of disability justice and transformative justice. Her work centers on the principles of accessibility, interdependence, and collective liberation, advocating for a society that values and includes all its members. As a prominent voice in the disability justice movement, Mia challenges systemic ableism and works towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world for all individuals.
Mia Mingus’s activism is deeply rooted in the belief that true social justice can only be achieved when the most marginalized among us are liberated. Through her writing and educational efforts, she brings attention to the interconnectedness of various forms of oppression, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to justice that includes the voices and experiences of disabled people. Her transformative justice work seeks to address harm and violence within communities in ways that promote healing and accountability, rather than punishment. Mia’s dedication to promoting disability justice and social equity has made her a respected leader and advocate, inspiring countless individuals and communities to work towards a more just and inclusive society.