WHY THE COLORS OF THE DISABILITY PRIDE FLAG MEAN SO MUCH

RED - Physical Disabilities

Betsy Zang - Senior Project Manager, Environmental Services

 

Can you tell us about your experience/relation to Red - Physical Disabilities?

My best friend (my Mom) was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) about 15 years ago. We were shocked and scared; no one ever wants to hear that you have been diagnosed with a disease that disrupts how your brain works and how your brain works with your body. The first thing her neurologist told us was that she wasn’t going to die from MS. OK! So let's live!

 

Have you come across any ideal/innovative accommodations that are inclusive of people with Physical Disabilities?

We love ADA curb ramps!  We love smooth concrete, not stamped or exposed aggregate. We were thrilled to see the Air Carrier Access Act, as traveling on a plane is usually not an option for us (no bathrooms, her leg braces barely fit between seats, etc.). We love restaurants with a mix of table types. We love VRBO rentals with elevators and first floor bedrooms. We love paved trails or even boardwalks in parks and we love the small signs that say “Step free Route”. We also love it when people offer to hold a door for us.

 

Why is Disability Pride Month important to you?

I actually never think of my mom as “disabled”. She is just my mom. Disability Pride Month is important to promote awareness that people who have physical disabilities are just like the rest of us – moms, dads, kids – trying to work and play just like everyone else.

GOLD - Neurodiversity

Farzana Atique, PhD, PE, Transportation Engineer III

 

Can you tell us about your experience/relation to Gold - Neurodiversity?

My elder son, Rashad, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 8. From his early childhood we observed certain aspects that were showing concerned signs of lack of development. However, he was considered to be in the grey area and was even ruled out of an autism diagnosis at age 4. But autism comes in a wide range and each child can have different strengths and weaknesses. As he started attending school, it became evident that he lacked social skills and had sensory problems. As such he was tested again and since then he has become part of the growing number of individuals who are a part of the autism spectrum.

 

Are there obstacles/challenges you were surprised to experience/learn about?

I remember he practiced songs and rhymes for his preschool graduation. But on the actual day, he wouldn’t let go of me and wouldn’t enter the room where the event was taking place. His teacher improvised and told him to hold on to the basket and give event brochures to the parents so he didn't have to go inside. As the event started, I remember sitting with him outside and seeing him murmuring the songs as the other kids were singing inside. I tried to take him in, but he refused adamantly. Later, we came to learn that loud noise and crowded places caused him anxiety. That was my first realization that life would not be easy for us. But as years have passed, and now having seen him go to the stage for his high school graduation with a room full of people, I can state that patience and perseverance are key to overcoming challenges.

 

Why is Disability Pride Month important to you?

It is important because it celebrates individuals like my son and many others who are thriving and making contributions to our society in spite of their physical or mental disability.

BLUE - Emotional and Psychiatric Disabilities

Diana Reader - Human Resources Coordinator

 

Can you tell us about your experience/relation to Blue – Emotional and Psychiatric Disabilities?

Most people have a personal connection to knowing someone with mental illness. Some people avoid treatment due to various reasons/concerns, so talking about it can maybe start a discussion with a loved one or friend in need.

 

Have you come across any ideal/innovative accommodations that are inclusive of people with Emotional and Psychiatric Disabilities?

• Listening is very important
• Being supportive so the individual does not feel alone
• Be patient
• Reduce triggers
• Allowing flexible schedules in the workplace
• Provide private space and frequent breaks during employment

Why is Disability Pride Month important to you?

This month serves as a reminder to offer emotional support to our friends and loved ones who may be struggling with their mental or psychiatric disabilities. 

GREEN -  Sensory Disabilities

John Bush, PE, Senior Transportation Engineer

 

Can you tell us about your experience/relation to Green – Sensory Disabilities?

Since I was 7 or so, I knew my friend Dave was 90% deaf. I just thought of his speech impediment as an accent and his hearing aids as glasses like my other friend wore. Nothing different. It’s interesting how children see things so differently than adults do.

 

Have you come across any ideal/innovative accommodations that are inclusive of people with Sensory Disabilities?

Back in the 1970s he would have to put his alarm clock under his pillow to wake him up.  Additionally, since he can hear a little bit, he had a phone with a dial that would turn the volume up. (Also, if he was tired of listening to me, he would take his hearing aid out)!

 

Why is Disability Pride Month important to you?

Because I am proud of my friend Dave. He went on to get a Doctorate in Education… “Doctor Dave”.  He didn’t let his disability hold him back. Out of the group of us from the age of 7, he was the only one that got his Doctorate. Boom.