In Rochester, NY, July is ROC Pride Month. But this month is also Disability Pride Month! Rochester LGBTQ+ Together celebrates the intersectional identities of LGBTQIA2S+ disabled folx this month and always. We take this moment to reaffirm our commitment to listening to and amplifying queer and trans disabled voices and learning about their diverse perspectives and needs. We will continue to fight for true marriage equality, when our LGBTQIA2S+ disabled siblings can marry without loss of critical benefits.
Via Megemiko Art: “Disability Pride Month will not get the recognition that [National] Pride Month in June receives every year. LGBTQIA+ disabled folks deserve to be celebrated 24/7, 365 days of the year. They also deserve to feel that visibility, recognition, and love that so many LGBTQIA+ folks feel during June.
ALWAYS include LGBTQIA+ disabled folks in your conversations around Pride and LGBTQIA+ rights. Be mindful of your choice of words – avoid language that further marginalizes queer disabled folks and contributes to the extremely ableist world we live in today.
Create safe spaces that are accessible for ALL LGBTQIA+ disabled folks including those who are neurodivergent and those who live with mental illness.
Let LGBTQIA+ disabled folks determine what THEY are needing and understand that disabled folks are as diverse as any other group of people!”
Artwork: Megemiko Art
