SXU Celebrates Disability Pride Month
July is Disability Pride Month, and Saint Xavier University (SXU) is celebrating with gratitude for its Center for Accessibility Resources, whose staff works each day to empower and provide support to students with diverse abilities.
On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act, which banned discrimination on the basis of disability in the areas of employment, public services, transformation and telecommunications. The month highlights a critical time to listen to and amplify voices of people with disabilities and shine a spotlight on those who have been marginalized or discriminated against.
SXU's Center for Accessibility Resources is committed to working closely with staff and faculty in support of equal access, reasonable accommodations and academic assistance for students with documented disabilities. The center works closely with other departments to collaborate on purposeful and student-centered initiatives. Within the past year, the center has seen an exponential increase in services for first-year and transfer students.
Students find the center to be a place where they feel they are being heard and understood. The center's mission is also strongly aligned with Saint Xavier's Mercy mission and core values, always striving to take part in new initiatives that place the core values of diversity, integrity, respect and hospitality at the forefront of their inclusive environment.
The center is also committed to educating and fostering greater awareness of those with disabilities in programs and events throughout each academic semester, including Via, the first-year student orientation, and within organizations and initiatives. They have presented at professional development events and in trainings for peer mentors, resident assistants and other student leadership positions on the importance of the integration of services to develop a more inclusive and diverse learning environment, ultimately leading to personal, professional and academic success for students.
"SXU's founding Sisters of Mercy and their mission have been a guiding principle in the design and development of the numerous projects and services we have implemented over the years. One of our greatest strengths is our inherent responsibility to ensure that everyone we interact with and represent is respected for their individuality and abilities. Long before many advocated for disability pride, we were at the forefront of making this a reality and a significant part of our efforts for a successful transition into higher education," said Margaret Rose McDonnell, director of the center.
The city of Chicago also celebrated the month with pride, hosting the annual Disability Pride Parade on July 20 along with beach parties and recreation programs.
To learn more, visit the Center for Accessibility Resources webpage and check out the Chicago Public Library's Disability Pride Month collection of films, books, and highlights.