Celebrating Disability Pride Month

July marks Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and vibrant contributions of people with disabilities while also challenging ableism and advocating for inclusion in every space. At HEDR, we believe equity work is not complete without actively considering disability justice in our efforts — and that includes making room not only at the table but in decision-making, leadership, and vision-building.

As members of HEDR, we are all called to go beyond compliance and move toward true inclusion. This means designing programs, policies, events, and spaces that centre diverse abilities — not as an afterthought, but as a foundation for equitable practice.

Earlier this year, HEDR hosted our Diverse Abilities Symposium, a powerful gathering that brought together advocates, service providers, and individuals with lived experience. We were proud to partner with two remarkable member agencies whose work continues to push boundaries and create change: the Centre for Diverse Learners and Community Living North Halton.

The Centre for Diverse Learners has long been a leader in advancing inclusive education and supporting neurodiverse children, youth, and families. Their advocacy for accessible learning environments and educator training is reshaping how we understand learning differences — and what it means to truly support every learner.

Community Living North Halton is another cornerstone in our community, working to empower people with developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive as valued members of society. Their person-centred approach and commitment to inclusion, dignity, and community connection continue to inspire the broader sector.

We are also proud of our ongoing partnership with Lunchbox Café, a social enterprise operated by Community Living North Halton. This incredible initiative provides employment and training opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities, and we are grateful to have them cater many of our HEDR events. Supporting them isn’t just about good food — it’s about building economic inclusion and showing what’s possible when we invest in people.

As we honour Disability Pride Month, let us remember: accessibility is not optional. Inclusion is not a checklist. It is a mindset, a commitment, and a shared responsibility.

We invite all HEDR members to reflect on the ways disability intersects with race, gender, class, and sexuality — and to integrate these reflections into their ongoing equity and inclusion efforts.

Because a truly equitable region is one where everyone belongs — not just in July, but all year long.