Pride is more than a celebration — it's a statement of visibility, resilience, and the right to belong.
This July, we proudly stood alongside advocates, leaders, and allies as the Chicago City Council formally recognized Disability Pride Month and celebrated the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — a landmark piece of legislation that continues to shape the future of equity and inclusion.
Bob Shea, D4D’s Founding Director, and Edgar, a dedicated D4D volunteer, represented our organization at City Hall. They stood with dozens of others as Mayor Brandon Johnson and Commissioner Rachel Arfa of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) led the Council in passing a resolution commemorating this historic milestone.
Their presence was more than symbolic — it was deeply personal.
For Bob, the moment echoed his decades of advocacy and the foundation of D4D’s mission: to ensure everyone has access to the mobility equipment they need to live with dignity, freedom, and independence. For Edgar, a D4D volunteer and community member, it was a powerful affirmation of visibility — of being seen, heard, and celebrated.
“Being part of this momentous occasion reminded us all why representation matters,” Bob shared. “It's about ensuring that disability is never an afterthought — but a central part of the conversation about equity and access. It's why D4D exists.”
Signed into law in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was a landmark civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities. It paved the way for more inclusive policies in employment, education, transportation, and public life.
But even 35 years later, the work is not done.
As disability advocates across the country continue to fight for full inclusion, access to services, and barrier-free environments, organizations like D4D remain committed to pushing that progress forward — one piece of equipment, one person, one community at a time.
Disability Pride Month is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come — and recommit to the work still ahead. Representation, advocacy, and equity are not just words — they are responsibilities we all share — during Disability Pride Month and all year long.
👉 Explore Chicago MOPD events and activities»
👉 Join the movement Volunteer with D4D or Support D4D's mission
Being present at City Hall for this recognition was more than witnessing a resolution — it was a powerful affirmation of our purpose. Moments like these remind us that representation isn't symbolic; it's foundational. It shapes policy, shifts perspectives, and sparks change.
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month and reflect on 35 years of progress, we’re more committed than ever to advancing dignity, access, and inclusion — not just in words, but in action.
Let’s keep moving forward, together.
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