National Disability Independence Day is a significant day celebrated in various countries to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. This landmark legislation was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush, and it played a pivotal role in advancing the rights and independence of people with disabilities.
The ADA is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and public accommodations. It ensures equal opportunities and accessibility for people with disabilities, promoting their full participation in society.
The signing of the ADA marked a major milestone in the disability rights movement, as it laid the foundation for the recognition of disability rights as human rights. It represents a victory for disability advocates who fought tirelessly for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
On National Disability Independence Day, various events, seminars, workshops, and educational programs are organized to raise awareness about disability rights, promote inclusivity, and celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities. It is a day to acknowledge the contributions and resilience of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.
Additionally, National Disability Independence Day serves as an opportunity to advocate for further advancements in disability rights and to address the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities. It highlights the importance of continued efforts to create a society that is inclusive and accessible to all.
In celebrating this day, we honor the progress made in the fight for disability rights while recognizing the work that remains ahead to achieve true independence and equality for people with disabilities. It is a day to unite in solidarity and reaffirm our commitment to building a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their abilities.
July marks a special occasion as we come together to celebrate Disability Pride Month. This month-long observance aims to raise awareness, honor the achievements of individuals with disabilities, and foster a society that embraces diversity and inclusion. It is a time for acknowledging the unique strengths and capabilities of people with disabilities, as well as the challenges they face in their daily lives. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of Disability Pride Month, the history behind it, and the vital role it plays in creating a more equitable and compassionate world.
Understanding Disability Pride
Disability Pride is not merely about celebrating one’s disability; it’s a movement that advocates for acceptance, respect, and equal rights for people with disabilities. It encourages a shift in perspective from a focus on limitations to recognizing the vast potential and talents of disabled individuals. Just as we celebrate achievements and milestones in our lives, Disability Pride Month encourages us to recognize and appreciate the unique accomplishments and contributions of people with disabilities to our communities.
History and Evolution
The roots of Disability Pride Month can be traced back to the disability rights movement in the United States during the late 20th century. Disabled activists, inspired by other civil rights movements, began organizing protests and advocating for greater accessibility, non-discrimination, and social inclusion.
One pivotal moment in this movement was the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This groundbreaking legislation prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities and mandated accessibility measures across various sectors, such as employment, public services, and transportation. As a result, July has become an important month for recognizing disability rights and celebrating progress while acknowledging that there is still work to be done.
Challenging Stigma and Stereotypes
Disability Pride Month provides a platform to challenge the stigma and stereotypes that have long surrounded people with disabilities. It’s crucial to understand that disability does not define a person’s worth or potential. By promoting Disability Pride, we can foster an environment that encourages dialogue and understanding, breaking down barriers between people of all abilities.
Promoting Inclusivity in Society
An inclusive society is one that celebrates diversity and ensures that everyone has equal opportunities and access to resources. Disability Pride Month reminds us of the importance of building a world that embraces and accommodates the needs of all individuals, regardless of their physical, sensory, intellectual, or developmental differences.
This inclusivity extends to education, the workplace, public spaces, and digital environments. It involves not just physical accessibility, but also the cultivation of attitudes and mindsets that respect and value the contributions of people with disabilities.
Amplifying Voices and Empowering Advocacy
Disability Pride Month is also an opportunity to amplify the voices of disabled individuals and their allies. It serves as a reminder that advocacy and activism are essential for effecting positive change. When we actively listen to the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities, we can identify and address the barriers that hinder their full participation in society.
Take Action: How to Support Disability Pride Month
1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the challenges and experiences faced by people with disabilities. Read books, watch documentaries, and follow disability activists on social media to gain a broader understanding.
2. Raise Awareness: Share information about Disability Pride Month and the disability rights movement with friends, family, and colleagues. Use social media to spread positive messages about disability pride and empowerment.
3. Advocate for Inclusion: Encourage your workplace, schools, and community organizations to prioritize accessibility and inclusion. Advocate for policies that promote equal opportunities for disabled individuals.
4. Support Disability Organizations: Donate or volunteer with organizations that work towards disability rights and inclusion.
Conclusion
Disability Pride Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and action. It reminds us that disability is not a limitation but a facet of human diversity that enriches our communities. By embracing disability pride, we foster a culture of acceptance, compassion, and empowerment. Let us stand together as allies, ensuring that people with disabilities can live their lives with dignity, respect, and equal opportunities. Together, we can build a more inclusive and vibrant world for all. Happy Disability Pride Month!
July 26, 1990, marked a historic milestone in the fight for equality and inclusion—the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This groundbreaking civil rights law has been a beacon of hope and protection for millions of people with disabilities in the United States. As we celebrate 33 years of the ADA, it is crucial to reflect on its significance, the progress made, and the work that still lies ahead in creating a more accessible and inclusive society.
**1. Breaking Down Barriers: The Birth of the ADA**
Before the ADA, individuals with disabilities faced numerous barriers in their daily lives. Public spaces, workplaces, and educational institutions were often inaccessible, and discrimination against people with disabilities was alarmingly prevalent. The ADA was born out of a collective effort to address these issues and protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities in all aspects of life.
**2. The Pillars of the ADA**
The ADA is founded on five titles that cover different aspects of life and address various barriers faced by people with disabilities:
– Title I: Employment – Prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
– Title II: Public Services – Ensures equal access to government services, programs, and activities at the local and state levels.
– Title III: Public Accommodations – Requires businesses and commercial facilities to provide accessible services and accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
– Title IV: Telecommunications – Ensures equal access to communication services for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities.
– Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions – Addresses various additional issues, including legal remedies and the relationship between the ADA and other laws.
**3. Transforming Lives and Communities**
The impact of the ADA has been profound, transforming the lives of countless individuals with disabilities. Public spaces and transportation are now more accessible, enabling greater independence and mobility. Employment opportunities have expanded, with employers recognizing the value and contributions of a diverse workforce. The ADA has not only empowered people with disabilities but also enriched our communities by fostering greater inclusion and understanding.
**4. Challenges and Ongoing Advocacy**
Despite the progress achieved over the past three decades, challenges persist. Many individuals with disabilities still face barriers to access, and the full implementation of the ADA remains a work in progress. Ongoing advocacy and education are essential to ensure that the spirit of the ADA is upheld and that its principles are upheld in all areas of society.
**5. Embracing Inclusivity for the Future**
As we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the ADA, let us renew our commitment to embracing inclusivity and accessibility. Let us strive for a society where individuals with disabilities are not only protected by laws but also embraced with compassion and understanding. By creating a world that accommodates and values the contributions of all its members, we build a stronger, more equitable future for everyone.
**Conclusion: A Journey Towards Inclusion**
The Americans with Disabilities Act has been a beacon of hope, paving the way for greater inclusivity and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Through the ADA’s protections and the tireless advocacy of countless individuals and organizations, we continue to move forward on a journey towards a more accessible and inclusive society. As we celebrate the ADA’s 33rd anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and embracing diversity so that every individual can thrive and contribute their unique gifts to the world. Together, we can build a future where everyone’s rights are respected, regardless of ability, and where equality truly becomes a reality for all.
Introduction: July marks Sarcoma Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that affects the connective tissues in the body. While sarcoma remains a challenging disease, significant progress has been made in recent years thanks to dedicated researchers and medical professionals. This blog post will explore some promising developments in sarcoma research, highlighting the ongoing efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment options, and overall outcomes for sarcoma patients.
Enhanced Understanding of Sarcoma Subtypes: Sarcoma is a complex and diverse group of cancers comprising several distinct subtypes. Recent research has focused on better understanding each subtype’s specific characteristics, genetic mutations, and biological mechanisms. This knowledge is crucial for accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of targeted therapies tailored to individual patients.
Advances in Molecular Profiling: The advent of molecular profiling techniques have revolutionized cancer research, including sarcoma. Scientists can now analyze the genetic makeup of sarcoma tumors in great detail, identifying specific genetic alterations and biomarkers that drive tumor growth. This information not only aids in diagnosing distinct subtypes but also guides the development of personalized treatment strategies.
Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapies: Immunotherapy, an innovative approach that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, has shown promise in various cancer types, including sarcoma. Researchers are investigating the potential of immunotherapeutic agents, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive T-cell therapies, to boost the immune response against sarcoma cells. Additionally, targeted therapies that aim to inhibit specific molecular pathways involved in sarcoma growth and progression are being explored, offering more tailored treatment options for patients.
Precision Medicine and Clinical Trials: Precision medicine, which involves using genetic information to guide treatment decisions, is gaining traction in sarcoma research. By analyzing the genetic profile of a patient’s tumor, researchers can identify specific genetic alterations or mutations that can be targeted with existing or investigational drugs. This approach holds great promise for improving treatment outcomes and reducing the potential side effects of conventional therapies. Clinical trials are also crucial in evaluating new treatment approaches, including novel drugs, combination therapies, and immunotherapies, to expand the arsenal of effective treatments for sarcoma patients.
Collaborative Efforts and Patient Advocacy: The field of sarcoma research benefits from solid collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, and patient advocacy groups. These collaborations facilitate the sharing of data, resources, and expertise, accelerating the pace of discovery and innovation. Patient advocacy groups are vital in raising awareness, funding research initiatives, and supporting patients and their families.
Preclinical Models and Drug Development: Developing new therapies for sarcoma requires robust preclinical models that mimic the complexity of the disease. Researchers are refining these models, such as patient-derived xenografts and organoids, to represent sarcoma biology better. These models help test potential drugs and treatment combinations before they are evaluated in clinical trials, improving the efficiency of drug development and increasing the chances of successful outcomes.
Conclusion: Sarcoma research has made significant strides in recent years, offering hope for patients and their families. The advancements in understanding sarcoma subtypes, molecular profiling, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, precision medicine, and clinical trials provide a solid foundation for improving diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes. As researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates continue to collaborate and push the boundaries of knowledge, we can look forward to a future where sarcoma patients can access more effective, personalized, and tailored therapies. During Sarcoma Awareness Month, let us spread awareness, support ongoing research, and stand alongside those affected by this challenging disease. We can make a difference and bring about brighter days for sarcoma patients.
Embracing Inclusivity and Overcoming Challenges for a More Accessible World
Introduction:
In a world that strives for equality and inclusivity, it is essential to champion the rights and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. Society’s efforts to break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment have gained momentum, leading to significant progress in various aspects of life. This blog post explores the journey towards inclusivity, highlighting the advancements, challenges, and the importance of embracing diversity.
Celebrating Abilities, not Disabilities:
Disability should never define a person but be seen as a unique aspect of their identity. It is vital to shift our focus from limitations to abilities and recognize the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities bring to society. By celebrating diverse abilities, we promote an inclusive culture that values and respects the potential of every individual.
Creating Accessible Spaces:
The accessibility of public spaces, transportation systems, and buildings is crucial for inclusivity. Universal design principles have led to the implementation of ramps, elevators, tactile signage, and audio assistance, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate their surroundings independently and comfortably. These measures foster inclusivity and promote equal access to essential services for all.
Inclusive Education for All:
Education plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity. Schools and educational institutions are embracing the concept of an inclusive learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of students. Individualized education plans, specialized support systems, and assistive technologies empower students with disabilities to reach their full potential. Through inclusive education, we break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for all learners.
Employment Opportunities:
The corporate world is gradually shifting towards inclusivity by recognizing the value of diverse perspectives. Companies are creating inclusive cultures that accommodate and support employees with disabilities. Adaptive technologies, flexible work arrangements, and reasonable accommodations are opening doors for individuals with disabilities to thrive professionally. Embracing diverse talents and perspectives enhances productivity and fosters a more dynamic workforce.
Challenges and the Way Forward:
While progress has been made, challenges persist on the path to inclusivity. Societal stigmas, attitudinal barriers, and systemic inequalities hinder the full integration of individuals with disabilities. Advocacy, awareness, and policy changes are crucial to address these challenges. By challenging stereotypes, fostering a culture of empathy and acceptance, and advocating for equal rights, we can drive positive change and ensure a more inclusive society for all.
The Role of Organizations and Grassroots Initiatives:
Organizations and grassroots initiatives are at the forefront of the inclusivity movement. Disability rights organizations, community centers, and support groups tirelessly work to amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities, advocate for their rights, and ensure their needs are met. Their efforts are instrumental in dismantling barriers and creating a society that values and embraces diversity.
Conclusion:
Inclusivity is a shared responsibility that requires collective action, empathy, and understanding. By recognizing the value of diversity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering equal opportunities, we can create a world where individuals with disabilities are not only included but celebrated for their unique contributions. Together, let us unite in creating a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable world for all, where the talents and potential of every individual can flourish.
Self-esteem is defined as confidence in one’s own worth or abilities; self-respect. How’s your self-esteem lately? Mine could use some improvement, especially with being inside my home for nearly a year now. Add to that my disabilities, the strains of caregiving, worrying about world problems and life in general, and neglecting myself, I set myself up for depression and a slight loss of self-esteem. Sometimes, because I put myself last all the time, which isn’t healthy, I find myself doubting my worth and abilities.
So what’s the remedy then? I like the information found on the Mayo Clinic Website. You can read it below, or take a gander at the site by clicking the link provided.
Self-esteem: Take steps to feel better about yourself
If you have low self-esteem, harness the power of your thoughts and beliefs to change how you feel about yourself. Start with these steps.
Low self-esteem can negatively affect virtually every facet of your life, including your relationships, your job and your health. But you can boost your self-esteem by taking cues from types of mental health counseling.
Consider these steps, based on cognitive behavioral therapy.
1. Identify troubling conditions or situations
Think about the conditions or situations that seem to deflate your self-esteem. Common triggers might include:
A work or school presentation
A crisis at work or home
A challenge with a spouse loved one, co-worker, or another close contact
A change in roles or life circumstances, such as a job loss or a child leaving home
2. Become aware of thoughts and beliefs
Once you’ve identified troubling situations, pay attention to your thoughts about them. This includes what you tell yourself (self-talk) and your interpretation of what the situation means. Your thoughts and beliefs might be positive, negative, or neutral. They might be rational, based on reason or facts, or irrational, based on false ideas.
Ask yourself if these beliefs are true. Would you say them to a friend? If you wouldn’t say them to someone else, don’t say them to yourself.
3. Challenge negative or inaccurate thinking
Your initial thoughts might not be the only way to view a situation — so test the accuracy of your thoughts. Ask yourself whether your view is consistent with facts and logic or whether other explanations for the situation might be plausible.
Be aware that it can be hard to recognize inaccuracies in thinking. Long-held thoughts and beliefs can feel normal and factual, even though many are just opinions or perceptions.
Also, pay attention to thought patterns that erode self-esteem:
All-or-nothing thinking. You see things as either all good or all bad. For example, “If I don’t succeed in this task, I’m a total failure.”
Mental filtering. You see only negatives and dwell on them, distorting your view of a person or situation. For example, “I made a mistake on that report and now everyone will realize I’m not up to this job.”
Converting positives into negatives. You reject your achievements and other positive experiences by insisting that they don’t count. For example, “I only did well on that test because it was so easy.”
Jumping to negative conclusions. You reach a negative conclusion when little or no evidence supports it. For example, “My friend hasn’t replied to my email, so I must have done something to make her angry.”
Mistaking feelings for facts. You confuse feelings or beliefs with facts. For example, “I feel like a failure, so I must be a failure.”
Negative self-talk. You undervalue yourself, put yourself down or use self-deprecating humor. For example, “I don’t deserve anything better.”
4. Adjust your thoughts and beliefs
Now replace negative or inaccurate thoughts with accurate, constructive thoughts. Try these strategies:
Use hopeful statements. Treat yourself with kindness and encouragement. Instead of thinking your presentation won’t go well, try telling yourself things such as, “Even though it’s tough, I can handle this situation.”
Forgive yourself. Everyone makes mistakes — and mistakes aren’t permanent reflections on you as a person. They’re isolated moments in time. Tell yourself, “I made a mistake, but that doesn’t make me a bad person.”
Avoid ‘should’ and ‘must’ statements. If you find that your thoughts are full of these words, you might be putting unreasonable demands on yourself — or on others. Removing these words from your thoughts can lead to more realistic expectations.
Focus on the positive. Think about the parts of your life that work well. Consider the skills you’ve used to cope with challenging situations.
Consider what you’ve learned. If it was a negative experience, what might you do differently the next time to create a more positive outcome?
Relabel upsetting thoughts. You don’t need to react negatively to negative thoughts. Instead, think of negative thoughts as signals to try new, healthy patterns. Ask yourself, “What can I think and do to make this less stressful?”
Encourage yourself. Give yourself credit for making positive changes. For example, “My presentation might not have been perfect, but my colleagues asked questions and remained engaged — which means that I accomplished my goal.”
You might also try these steps, based on acceptance and commitment therapy.
1. Identify troubling conditions or situations
Again, think about the conditions or situations that seem to deflate your self-esteem. Once you’ve identified troubling situations, pay attention to your thoughts about them.
2. Step back from your thoughts
Repeat your negative thoughts many times or write them down in an unusual way, such as with your non-dominant hand. Imagine seeing your negative thoughts written on different objects. You might even sing a song about them in your mind.
These exercises can help you take a step back from thoughts and beliefs that are often automatic and observe them. Instead of trying to change your thoughts, distance yourself from your thoughts. Realize that they are nothing more or less than words.
3. Accept your thoughts
Instead of fighting, resisting or being overwhelmed by negative thoughts or feelings, accept them. You don’t have to like them, just allow yourself to feel them.
Negative thoughts don’t need to be controlled, changed or acted upon. Aim to lessen the power of your negative thoughts and their influence on your behavior.
These steps might seem awkward at first, but they’ll get easier with practice. As you begin to recognize the thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to your low self-esteem, you can counter them or change the way you think about them. This will help you accept your value as a person. As your self-esteem increases, your confidence and sense of well-being are likely to soar.
In addition to these suggestions, try to remember on a daily basis that you’re worth special care. To that end, be sure to:
Take care of yourself. Follow good health guidelines. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Limit sweets, junk food, and animal fats.
Do things you enjoy. Start by making a list of things you like to do. Try to do something from that list every day.
Spend time with people who make you happy. Don’t waste time on people who don’t treat you well.
Celebrate ADA30 (1990-2020) and ADA Anniversary (July 26, 2020)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush.
Throughout the year and on the ADA Anniversary, the ADA National Network recognizes this landmark event and the important work to promote equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
Over half of disabled people report feeling lonely. I am one of them. I left the work world in 2012 on disability. My condition continues to deteriorate and keeps me away from social interactions (pre-COVID 19), and family gatherings. Since COVID 19, things are worse. Totally quarantined due to a lowered immune system, my outings consist of only those pertaining to medical visits which are necessary and can’t be done via telehealth.
What friends I had have disappeared from my life. My current life revolves around the family members inside of my home. I miss out on anything fun or stimulating and if I could I probably wouldn’t enjoy myself for long. My stamina is low, and my pain levels are high. I know I am not alone. I would like to find a way to communicate with others with the same problems, but the online forums seem lonely as well as typing on a screen to a faceless “other person” seems fruitless. I don’t think I’d like it as much as I feel I would some days, and fear I’d start and never go back. The connections are too meaningless and most people only want to complain. I do enough of that myself.
Lost friendships are a painful reminder of what my illness has cost. It hurts to feel lonely. Creating a blog that no one cares to read-only makes me feel lonelier. I know there are ways to combat loneliness. I can increase family ties or find new friends. I deserve to remain connected to those I love. By reaching out, thinking ahead, and recognizing my needs, perhaps I can find happiness and a greater sense of social connection again.
June is an awareness month for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
According to the National Center for PTSD, there are currently about 8 million people in the United States alone with PTSD. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder occurs after a person has experienced some sort of severe traumatic event in life. Despite what you may think, this is not a rare occurrence, with around 7 or 8 people out of 100 experiencing it during their lifetime.
The Mayo Clinic groups symptoms into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. These symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Join My Newsletter! It's Free!
Join my mailing list to receive the latest news and updates in my newsletter. Don't miss out! You may unsubscribe at any time.
You have Successfully Subscribed!
Join my email contact list
Join my mailing list to receive the latest news and updates.
Join My Newsletter! It's Free!
Join my mailing list to receive the latest news and updates in my newsletter. Don't miss out! You may unsubscribe at any time.
You have Successfully Subscribed!
Your personal information will only be used for the express intent of sending you the monthly newsletter of Kathryn M. B. Johnson. Your privacy is important to me!