Celebrating Disability Pride Month 2025

Dear Colleagues,

Each year we celebrate Disability Pride Month in July coinciding with the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, removing barriers to employment, transportation, public services, and other critical areas. This month serves as a time to recognize the history, contributions, and strength of people with disabilities and to acknowledge and address the barriers that still exist. We also use this month as a way to promote inclusion and accessibility for all, ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and knows that their voice matters.

As we observe Disability Pride this month, we remember that Birch began in 1975 fighting to ensure children had access to a free and appropriate education and subsequently advocated for full access to their communities which led to the landmark ADA legislation 35 years ago. Our mission—to empower individuals with autism and developmental disabilities—has always meant more than just providing support. It means advocating for their rights, amplifying their voices, and creating paths of opportunity for individuals to reach their potential. It means that we raise awareness of their rights and struggles and ensure they have the same access to high quality education, housing, employment, and their community as everyone else.

There is still much work to be done, and these goals are only possible through the work of our dedicated staff in partnership with families, communities, and government. We must ask ourselves how we can best support the people who rely on us each day? How can we increase their access and help them reach their fullest potential? Together, by holding ourselves to the highest standard of care and advocacy, we can turn these questions into action and ensure that every individual we support has the chance to lead a life of dignity, purpose, and possibility.

Best regards,

Matt Sturiale
President & CEO