July marked the celebration of Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the lives and experiences of disabled Americans. This community represents the largest minority group in the U.S., comprising 27% of the population, with one in four individuals having a disability. Disabilities include physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental challenges. They can be visible, like mobility issues, or hidden, like problems with thinking, hearing, or vision.

Disabilities are connected to other minority groups, including LGBTQ+ people. Just as LGBTQ+ history is diverse and crucial, it’s vital to see the link between LGBTQ+ history and the important contributions of individuals with disabilities. Recent studies indicates that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to have disabilities than others. Within the queer and trans community, 30% of gay and bisexual men, along with 36% of lesbian and bisexual women, identify as having disabilities. A survey of more than 26,000 transgender individuals indicated that 39% of them live with a disability.

For years, disabled people, including disabled LGBTQ+ historical figures, were overlooked in history. While some progress has been made in acknowledging various aspects of identity, addressing disability within the LGBTQ+ community has been slower. Disability Pride Month is a chance to highlight and celebrate these intersections in our history.

While many disabled LGBTQ+ individuals deserve recognition in Disability Pride Month, the lack of literature about the connection between disability and LGBTQ+ identities makes it difficult to share all their stories. Several icons have made important contributions to LGBTQ+ history and disability advocacy, even if we can only focus on a few.

Well-known disabled LGBTQ+ figures highlighted in events such as Black History Month and LGBT History Month include respected writers like James Baldwin, who dealt with mental and physical challanges; Audre Lorde, who bravely fought metastatic cancer for ten years; bell hooks, managing a disabling autoimmune condition; and Adrienne Rich, coping with severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Frida Kahlo, a renowned Mexican surrealist artist, identified as an openly bisexual individual and faced major disabilities. Born with polio-induced paralysis and spina bifida, Kahlo underwent numerous surgeries, including the amputation of her right leg. Her artwork deeply explores her disabilities, pain, and body dysmorphia..

Kiyoshi Kuromiya, a disabled Philadelphia AIDS activist and survivor of Japanese internment, played a vital role in the LGBTQ+ community. He established the Critical Path Project, offering information and resources about HIV/AIDS.

Marsha P. Johnson, a towering figure in the Stonewall uprising of 1969, she campaigned for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and those with psychiatric conditions. Her efforts aimed to combat the mistreatment experienced by disabled LGBTQ+ people.

These instances show the intricate ties between LGBTQ+ and disability identities. As we commemorate Disability Pride Month, let’s celebrate the accomplishments of these individuals who influenced history through resilience and advocacy. 

In summary

Disability Pride Month honors the convergence of disability and LGBTQ+ identities, acknowledging amazing contributions that have made history. From concealed disabilities among well-known figures to rights champions, these stories emphasize representation’s strength and diverse voices. Let’s embrace these legacies as a testament to unity, diversity, and the continuous quest for equality.