Two of our favorite months are June and July because we get to celebrate PRIDE twice! June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and July is Disability Pride Month. While we love spotlighting these communities during this special time, at Inclusive Communication Services (ICS), we’re dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ and disabled communities year-round, not just during peak Pride months.
Throughout the Pride season, as cities and organizations host parades, drag shows, and gatherings for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, it’s important to make sure that d/Deaf, DeafBlind, blind, low vision, hard-of-hearing, and people with disabilities can join the fun. This article will explore how we can collectively celebrate the intersection of queer and disabled identities.
For Deaf and hard-of-hearing New Yorkers attending events that are not yet accessible, we offer a Request-a-Terp form available year-round. Fill it out, and an ICS coordinator will advocate on your behalf to secure the necessary accommodation services.
The Disabled LGBTQ+ Community
Disabled LGBTQ+ people who live at the intersection of these two identities can face compounded discrimination. Intersecting identities is the concept that a person’s identity consists of multiple factors such as gender identity, gender expression, race, ethnicity, class, religion, and sexual identity and expression. Disability is another important facet of identity, shaping how individuals interact with their world and society.
Statistics reveal the importance of creating inclusive communities. According to the HRC Foundation’s 2020 analysis of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), LGBTQ+ adults are notably more likely to report having a disability compared to non-LGBTQ+ adults. Specifically, 1 in 3 LGBTQ+ adults self-reported a disability, compared to 1 in 4 of non-LGBTQ+ (cisgender and heterosexual) adults. Additionally, more than half of transgender adults reported a disability. These figures highlight the crucial need to address welcoming disabled LGBTQ+ individuals into community events.
Pride Accessibility Services and Best Practices
When Pride events promote themselves with phrases like “Everyone is welcome!” “Accessible!” “Inclusive!” it’s important to consider how these statements are received by the disabled LGBTQ+ community. To truly be inclusive, it’s essential to provide key services such as sign language interpreters, live captioning, and accessible ramps, seating, and bathrooms. These elements are crucial for creating equal access and removing barriers.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start, our inclusive guide to accessible events can help. We also recommend reaching out to your local disabled queer community before Pride events. People with disabilities are experts in creating accessible environments. Once you’ve established relationships, ask, “What would make you feel genuinely welcome and excited to attend Pride?”
When advertising your Pride event as accessible, make sure to include all relevant information that disabled attendees might need before deciding to attend. For instance, wheelchair users need to know if the venue is physically accessible, while d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals need information on whether performances and announcements will be accessible. Providing this information upfront demonstrates your commitment to inclusivity and makes it easier for the disability community to engage without having to track down details from your event team.
We understand that many organizations creating Pride events are nonprofits or have budget limitations. To ensure accessibility, incorporate it into your planning agenda from the start. Explore fundraising ideas, seek sponsorships, and look for collaboration opportunities to prioritize accommodations while staying within your budget. These steps will help you create an inclusive event that welcomes everyone, regardless of financial constraints.
ASL Interpreters at Pride Events
Inclusive Communication Services (ICS) is a proud LGBTQ-owned company with a workforce that includes queer and disabled individuals. We specialize in accessibility consultations and have extensive experience providing American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services at Pride events. This year, we had the honor of partnering with and sponsoring some incredible events. A special shoutout to the following organizations and events for leading the way in accessible PRIDE: Pocono Pride Festival, 14Y Street, Stand Up NYC Pride Benefit, Playbill Pride, Drag Story Hour, and Gay & Sober.
Where can I find ASL interpreted Pride events?
If you are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing searching for accessible events with ASL interpretation or live captioning provided, please check out our event calendar. You can also join our email list to receive notifications directly to your inbox about upcoming accessible events in New York City and the surrounding area.
