Wake County proclaims July as Disability Pride Month with Commissioner Waters' proclamation

Under the warm glow of the Wake County Board of Commissioners meeting room, a moment of heartfelt recognition unfolded as Commissioner Waters took to the podium to proclaim July as Disability Pride Month. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, even as the absence of representatives from local advocacy groups, such as the Arc of North Carolina and the Alliance of Disability Advocates, was noted.

Commissioner Waters, who shared her personal connection as an autism mom, expressed her enthusiasm for the proclamation, emphasizing the significance of this month dedicated to celebrating the contributions and achievements of individuals with disabilities. “In Wake County, approximately 9 percent of our population lives with a disability,” she stated, translating to around 110,000 individuals based on the county's total population of 1.22 million. This statistic highlights the importance of inclusivity and awareness within the community.

The proclamation also acknowledged the historical impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act, signed into law on July 26, 1990, which marked a pivotal moment in advancing civil rights for people with disabilities across the nation. Despite progress, the meeting revealed ongoing challenges, as the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities stood at 7.5 percent in 2024, notably higher than the 3.8 percent rate for those without disabilities.

In a powerful call to action, the Board reaffirmed its commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all residents have equal access to opportunities to live, learn, work, and play. The proclamation concluded with a unanimous vote, urging the community to support Disability Pride Month and to foster an accessible environment for all.

As the meeting wrapped up, the spirit of unity and advocacy lingered in the air, reminding attendees of the vital role each individual plays in creating a more inclusive Wake County.